Foundations
Written by No Doubt Marketing
If you are dealing with foundation problems, bringing in foundation contractors may be a wise move for you to take. Here is the least that you need to know when it comes to foundation repair contractors and how to choose the right certified foundation repair contractor for your job.
The contractors that you call for the purpose of repair work are actually the same people that do contracts for home improvement. You can find them in many places, from online, to down the street from you. Most home improvement contractors generally operate in small business formats. They will generally have only a few skilled and/or unskilled laborers, as well as relatively limited resources to work with. They generally also have the ability to build up contacts within certain suppliers who are able to sell them materials for what is called a concession rate.
The first thing a certified foundation repair contractor will do once you have approached them is visit your house, and examine the damage or deterioration extent. They will draw out an estimate based on that examination. Most contractors do not charge for estimates. Also of note, it is wise to not rely on a single estimate or contractor. It would be a good idea to get at least 3 estimates from three separate foundation repair contractors to get a better idea of what the work will cost. Another thing to note is that you should not simply go for the lowest estimate. Check into which uses better materials and does a better job. Always better to pay more up front than have to pay repeatedly for repairs to shoddy work.
Before you pay anything, ask your contractor for their references and a history of work done. Cross check these references, inspecting their work quality yourself if possible. Also be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been lodged, and if so, how they were handled. Too many complaints, or a few complaints not settled is a bad sign.
Another thing you need to check before paying any money is whether or not the contractor has the specific required licenses. Any foundation work that involves the fitting of sump pumps requires a license. If the work being done exceeds a cost of roughly thirty thousand dollars, the contractor will need a license for that. Lastly is insurance. Three different types of insurance must be checked for: Workman’s Compensation, Auto Insurance (covering damage possibly done to your own vehicles by the contractor), and General Liability Insurance, which would cover you against any property damage done by the contractor or his laborers.
Paying the contractor in full in advance is neither necessary, nor is it wise. Nearly all contractors begin working with a small payment upfront, and will request the final amount due once they have completed their job. Last but not least, never totally rely on the foundation contractors’ judgment. There are numerous do-it-yourself guides and books out that you can read and get an idea of what work actually needs to be done and how. Knowing this information will go far in protecting you from being swindled.
