How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Massachusetts, a contractor who works on residential foundations needs to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. On top of this, most jobs will require at least one individual to possess a Construction Supervisor's License. Any work completed by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide you with compensation up to $10,000 if your contractor is unable to reimburse you for damages sustained. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.
