How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. Contractor licenses in Virginia are handled by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses can be class A, B, or C, which determines the value of projects that a contractor can complete. There are additional specialty classifications, which have individual experience and examination requirements in addition to the general competency requirements for all licenses. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly decreases the risk of future structural damage.