How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with a long track record of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Virginia, contractor licenses 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 work on. There are additional specialty classifications, which have their own experience and examination requirements on top of the general license competency requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- 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.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
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, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.