How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider 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 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 require at least one individual to possess a Construction Supervisor's License. Work done by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide compensation up to $10,000 if the work is faulty and your contractor is unable to pay for damages. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 trying to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.