How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We recommend choosing a local foundation repair provider with a proven reputation for fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of any complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are handled by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses can be class A, B, or C. This determines the value of projects that a contractor can work on. 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider 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.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.