Many homeowners put off calling for foundation repair, even if they are sure there’s something wrong with the structure of their home. They may see cracks present in the walls that are growing by the day, or the floors could be unlevel. The problem is, who should be called?
There are several foundation repair services available and finding the right one is often challenging (but, thankfully, not impossible). The good news is, there are several tips that can be used to ensure the right person is hired for the job.
1. Research the Options
When a homeowner makes the decision to hire an expert for foundation repair, they are going to encounter several options. It’s a good idea to research the company’s in the local area by visiting their websites. Look at the types of products used by the contractor.
If piers are needed, find out as much as possible about the piers used. It’s also a good idea to look at reviews and testimonials left on the company’s website and third-party review sites, such as the Better Business Bureau, HomeAdvisor, and Google.
2. Get Referrals
Regardless of how simple or in-depth the needed repairs are, it’s important to always ask for referrals. A company that offers reputable work will have no issue providing referrals. Call a few people to get a better understanding of the experience they had with a particular contractor, too.
Some things to ask these past customers include the cost of services, timeliness, the professionalism of the team, and quality work. Most homeowners are happy to help someone else make the right decision.
3. Request an Assessment
If a homeowner wants to ensure that they receive an unbiased opinion on their home, it’s a good idea to have a structural engineer assess the home. An engineer is a professional, but they aren’t trying to sell a repair service. The only thing they offer is their expertise (it comes at a price).
These individuals will only recommend what is necessary to ensure the safety and stability of a home. They aren’t interested in selling additional or unneeded repairs.
4. Product Quality
This is a scenario where a person will get what they pay for. Everyone has heard this before, and in most situations, it’s true. There are a lot of companies selling cheap, low-quality foundation piers that will not last.
In fact, cheaper, lower-quality peers typically fail within 12 months, allowing the home to settle again and putting the homeowner back at square one. When calling repair service providers, be sure to ask about a warranty, too.
5. Customer Service Matters
A company that is focused on providing a high level of customer service will take time and put in an effort to ensure the job is done right. Evaluate the company’s customer service each time they are contacted, regardless of if it is via phone, email or in person. If the customer service is subpar, the end results will likely be, too.
Finding the Right Foundation Contractor
While it may not seem like that big of a deal, finding the right foundation contractor will pay off in the long run. By doing so, a homeowner can have confidence their foundation is safe, stable, and able to support their home. By using the tips here, anyone can feel confident they have found the right contractor for the job.
