How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in Virginia are handled 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 complete. Licenses may also have specialty classifications, which have individual examination and experience requirements on top of the general competency requirements for all licenses. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
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 services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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 unneeded work.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems quickly lowers the risk of future structural damage.