How Do I Find a Reputable Foundation Repair Company?
Your home’s foundation is one of the most important features and the one that can cause the most problems if the damage isn’t repaired. Future foundation problems like cracks, sagging floors, and homes that are off-level make repairing basement walls a really good idea. Hiring a foundation repair expert to look at your home is the best decision you could make, but you shouldn’t just go with the cheapest company you can Google: you want foundation repairs to be quality work from a company you trust. Here are five things to keep in mind when you ask questions and hire your company.
Whether They Have Licenses and Insurance
Ask the company that you’re looking to hire for proof of insurance and the licenses necessary to do the repair work that you need to be done. Any major foundation repair usually needs permits, and any contractor or company that works on a home should be licensed for work in your city or state. Certificates don’t always mean that the companies are experts, and it might take some digging to determine if the companies you’re looking at specialize in foundation repair. Any reputable contractor you bring in to repair your basement walls will also have insurance. Unforeseen issues can happen during any major repair, and the company you hire should have liability and workers’ compensation in mind.
If They’re Local
A national or out-of-state company can do great work, but there’s something to be said for supporting your local companies. Local companies will know your area best, including the terrain and climate. Repairing basement walls require a knowledge of local weather and soil conditions as well as geography, and a local company will be able to know which problems you’re likely to experience as well as which products or methods hold up best under local conditions. A local business will also know if a permit is required to work in your area.
Their Methods and Specialties
Not all contractors can handle all problems—you wouldn’t want a roofer to repair your sagging floors, and foundation problems are generally not solved by smoothing concrete into cracks. Make sure the company you’re hiring to fix your foundation knows about foundations and basements. Foundation repairs require taking factors like soil and water pressure, the water table, and the effects of foundation damage on a home’s structure into consideration. If the company is new, ask about the qualifications and previous foundation and basement experience of the staff. Also, ask about their methods and the products and materials they use—a good company will use good products and understand how to use them.
Any Testimonials and References
Take the time to compare and read reviews for the companies you’re looking to hire. Check if the companies are registered with the Better Business Bureau: while not all of them are, you’ll be able to see complaints if they are. You can ask a company for a list of references, but be cautious about this method as no one gives you a list of unsatisfied customers, and sometimes the participants are friends, family, or even paid to give good reviews. A more reliable way to learn about skilled, reasonably priced companies is to ask your neighbors or nearby friends and family for references for foundation repair work.
…But Trust Your Gut
While practical considerations should play a large role in hiring a foundation repair company, you’re going to be inviting this company into your home to do repairs on its most important part, so you want to trust them. If something feels “off,” you don’t have to hire them. A reputable repair company won’t try to push you into signing a contract on the spot or getting unnecessary repairs. Contractors don’t have to be cheerful on the job, but they should be personable. If you’re uncomfortable talking to them, or they treat you like a fool when they’re answering your questions, even if they provide good information and a free estimate (and even if the price is good), they might not be the right fit for you. Don’t dismiss that feeling.
Your Foundation Repair Experts at Acculevel
If you’re looking for a reputable foundation company to repair your sagging floor, basement walls, or other foundation problems, Acculevel can help. We’ve provided expert estimates and services since 1996 with thousands of happy and satisfied homeowners across Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and Michigan to show for it. For a free home inspection, contact Acculevel online, by emailing [email protected], or calling 855-388-4526.
