How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair provider with a proven reputation for fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider 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 professional you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and coverage 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 will 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 of 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider 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 offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.