A reputable foundation repair company can restore your property’s structural integrity. On the other hand, inexperienced contractors can worsen existing problems that incur rework to fix.
Whether you are a homeowner, property manager, or real estate investor, knowing the questions to ask before hiring a foundation repair company can save you time, money, and stress. Here are things to consider before making this decision.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Typically, the longer a company has been in business, the more reliable it is. A foundation repair contractor with many years in the industry is likely to have encountered and resolved a wide range of foundation issues. Their wealth of experience can help you feel confident in their ability to handle your specific problem.
Additionally, an established company is more likely to have a proven track record and portfolio of completed projects. They are also more likely to be financially stable, meaning they can honor warranties and stand by their work long after the job is done. Always inquire about the company’s history, and check for long-term presence in the community.
What Foundation Issues Do You Specialize In?
Foundation problems can vary, and some require different approaches than others. Foundation repair specialists tailor their services to the structure they’re working on, the cause of the damage, and the extent of the problem.
Residential and Commercial Repairs
Residential foundation repair typically focuses on addressing issues in single-family homes and may involve straightforward solutions. In contrast, commercial foundation repair deals with larger structures, like office buildings, apartment complexes, or businesses, and requires more complex strategies due to the scale and structural demands. A repair company may help one or both property types, and knowing its area of expertise will help you determine if the company is right for you.
Cause of Foundation Damage
The repair technician will conduct a thorough assessment of the problem area to determine the underlying cause of damage. Causes can range from soil conditions and water damage to poor construction practices or natural settling.
Depending on the cause, the repair company may offer solutions or recommend other professionals if the issue falls outside their expertise. Determining the source of the problem ensures an effective solution and prevents further deterioration.
Extent of Foundation Damage
The extent of foundation damage can vary from minor to severe, requiring different levels of intervention. Minor damage might involve small cracks that require sealing to prevent further moisture intrusion and structural weakening.
Moderate damage could include gaps or uneven settling. Severe damage often features major structural issues—bowing walls, large cracks, or pronounced sinking—and demands comprehensive repair solutions or partial foundation replacement to restore the integrity of the building.
What Insurance Do You Carry?
Before hiring a foundation repair company, ask about their insurance coverage to ensure they have protection from unforeseen accidents, damage, or liabilities that may occur during the project. Knowing the type and extent of insurance coverage the company carries can help you assess their level of preparedness and financial responsibility.
General Liability Insurance
General liability insurance protects you, as the property owner, against potential damage that might occur to your property during the repair process. Without this coverage, you could be financially responsible for any mishaps or accidents, leading to unforeseen expenses and stress.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
It’s equally important to verify that the company has workers’ compensation insurance, which covers medical expenses and lost wages if a worker sustains injuries on the job. This insurance not only protects the workers but also shields you from legal and financial repercussions.
Umbrella Coverage
Umbrella coverage is a supplemental liability insurance that goes beyond the limits of general liability policies. By hiring a foundation repair company with umbrella coverage, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you are further protected against unforeseen circumstances or major incidents during the repair process.
What Is the Estimated Timeline for Completion?
Understanding the timeline for completion simplifies planning and setting realistic expectations. Foundation repairs can be disruptive, so ask how long it will take to complete the work. The repair specialists should be able to provide an estimated start and finish date based on the scope of the project.
Discuss potential delays that might arise, such as poor weather conditions and material availability, as they can affect the timeline. Ensure the company communicates openly about these possibilities and keeps you updated throughout the project.
Do You Offer a Warranty?
A warranty is a sign of confidence in the in the solution and condition of the foundation. It also offers you peace of mind that the company stands behind its services.
Check these details on a foundation repair warranty:
- Confirm the length of the warranty to understand how long the repairs are guaranteed.
- Determine if the warranty can be transferred to a new homeowner if you sell the property.
- Review items or conditions not covered by the warranty, such as future modifications to the finished work.
- Understand the requirements and obligations outlined in the warranty for compliance.
- Familiarize yourself with the necessary steps to make a claim under the warranty in case issues arise.
How Do You Assess the Cost of Repairs?
Before signing a contract, ask the foundation repair company how they determine the cost of repairs. A thorough assessment should include a detailed inspection and evaluation of the foundation’s current condition. The company should provide a written estimate that breaks down the costs.
Also, confirm the chances of additional costs arising during the repair process. Transparency helps you avoid unexpected expenses. Knowing how the contractor assesses costs can help you budget and compare service providers.
What Materials and Methods Do You Use?
Understanding the materials and methods a company uses is key to evaluating its expertise and reliability. Ask about the products they employ and why they choose them. High-quality materials will provide lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.
URETEK’s patented polyurethane foam technology addresses foundation problems by stabilizing and lifting concrete slabs. The expanding foam fills voids, strengthens the soil, and provides structural support. We inject the foam beneath the foundation to provide a long-term solution to foundation problems.
Selecting the right foundation repair company is crucial for your property’s structural longevity. By asking these questions, you can make a well-informed decision, set realistic expectations for the project, and confidently choose a foundation repair contractor that provides lasting solutions.