How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about 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, your foundation expert will need to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. On top of this, most jobs require at least one individual to hold a Construction Supervisor's License. Any work completed by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide compensation of up to $10,000 if there are issues and your contractor is unable to pay. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to 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:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.