How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Massachusetts, a foundation repair contractor 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. Work that is 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 concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What foundation flaws 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.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
