How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. 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 asking for local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
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 handled 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. There are additional specialty classifications, which have individual 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
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider 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.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.