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 do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all manner of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are handled 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 undertake. Licenses may also have specialty classifications, which have their own experience and examination requirements in addition to the general license competency requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell 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 should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.