How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair company with a well-established track record of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years 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 the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. 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 work on. A license can also have one of several specialty classifications, which have individual examination and experience requirements in addition to the general competency requirements for all licenses. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. 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
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 unneeded work.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? 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 guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.