Finding the Right Foundation Repair Company
If you have a foundation problem or you suspect that you have one, you want the best foundation repair company to repair the damage. The foundation is what your home rests on, and a problem in this area generally leads to more problems for the rest of the house.
So how do you pick a “great” foundation repair company? It’s not all about who charges the least. Trying to save a few dollars here can be a costly mistake. An incompetent repair team may not only fail to solve the problem, but also worsen it!
To pick the right foundation repair company for your needs, here are some guidelines to consider:
Recommendations
Probably the best and most trustworthy evidence of a foundation repair company’s ability would be the recommendations of former customers. If you have friends who have enlisted the professional services of a foundation repair team, ask them about their experience. Did your friends have problems with the repair team? Was the foundation problem solved? How long did they take, and did they finish within the deadline they set themselves?
If none of your friends have ever hired a foundation repair specialist, then perhaps your foundation engineer can recommend a few. Be sure to ask for references from each foundation repair company you talk to. If they’ve been in business for a while, they should have lots of customers who are willing to give testimonials.
Accreditation
It’s also a good idea to make sure the repair company is accredited or a member of good standing in a professional association. Consider a company that is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. You can check how many customer complaints have been lodged against them and whether any or most of these complaints have been resolved.
A membership in a professional association (such as the Foundation Repair Association or the Foundation Repair Network) can also be an indication of professionalism. Often there are standards to be met before a membership is granted. The conditions for membership may include a certain number of years in the industry, proof of proper education, and passing an exam. These organizations may also insist on proof of moral good standing.
Your Own Opinion
Finally, you should trust your own instincts and perceptions. Talk to each of these companies and make your own observations. If possible, visit their office and check to see if everything looks organized and professional.
Ask the right questions, such as:
- How long have they been working in the industry?
- Do they have worker’s compensation and liability insurance?
- Are they willing to send you a certificate of insurance?
- Will the workers be company employees or are they temporary workers?
- Will there be a supervisor to oversee things on site?
- Do they offer a free quote?
- Does the company have the equipment and resources needed to fix the damage caused by the foundation problem?
- How long will the job take?
Once you’ve selected your foundation repair company, make sure you read the contract carefully. If you don’t understand something ask them to clarify. With the right company, the job should be done efficiently and for a reasonable fee.