How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business 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
Look for a local foundation repair company with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and good customer 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 handled by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. Licenses can be class A, B, or C, which determines the value of projects that a contractor can work on. Licenses may also have specialty classifications, which have their own experience and examination requirements in addition to the general license competency requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may 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 extra work.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
