How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these important factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with many years of 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
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses can be classified as A, B, or C. This determines the value of projects that a contractor can complete. Licenses may also have specialty classifications, which have their own examination and experience requirements in addition to the general competency requirements for all licenses. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs 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 options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation flaws 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
