How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are issued 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 undertake. A license can also have one of several specialty classifications, which have individual examination and experience requirements on top of the general competency requirements for all licenses. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
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 offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
