How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Virginia, contractor licenses are handled by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses come in classes A, B, or C, which determines the value of projects that a contractor can undertake. A license can also have one of several specialty classifications, which have individual experience and examination requirements on top of the general competency requirements for all licenses. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to 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 companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation defects 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems quickly decreases the risk of future structural damage.