How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has valid credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Virginia, contractor licenses are handled 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 work on. There are additional specialty classifications, which have their own examination and experience requirements on top of the general license competency requirements. 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 foundation services. 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 type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- 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 find 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 trying to bill you for extra work.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
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. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.