How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are issued 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 complete. Licenses may also have specialty classifications, which have their own examination and experience requirements on top of the general competency requirements for all licenses. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What are some likely causes 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 repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
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 reduces the risk of further structural damage.