How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. In Virginia, contractor licenses are issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses can be classified as 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 their own experience and examination requirements on top of the general license competency requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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 repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What type of warranties are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.