How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. 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. In addition to this registration, most jobs will 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 you with compensation 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
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 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 unnecessary work.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
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 provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.
