How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
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
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage 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. In addition to this registration, most jobs require at least one individual to hold a Construction Supervisor's License. Work done 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.