Most people don’t think about their home’s foundation until it’s too late. By that point, it might be too late for a simple repair job and you might need to completely rebuild your foundation.
That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to the condition of your home’s foundation and take action as soon as you notice any problems.
Ignoring the problem will only lead to bigger and more expensive repairs down the road. So if you want to protect your biggest investment, make sure to schedule regular foundation inspections and take care of any problems as soon as they arise. For further knowledge on hiring a foundation contractor, visit our website at https://louisvillefoundationrepairpros.com/.
What is a foundation repair contractor?
A foundation contractor is a professional who helps to fix problems with the foundation of a house. This can include anything from fixing cracks in the foundation to repairing damage caused by water or pests.
What problems can a foundation repair contractor help fix?
There are many types of problems that can be fixed, but the most common include slab heave, which is where the house moves slightly upwards on one side due to soil erosion, and settlement. Settlement happens when the ground underneath a property sinks or moves over time. This sort of problem is caused by soil erosion or poor drainage.
Why should I hire a foundation repair contractor?
Hiring a foundation contractor typically saves homeowners from having to take out a loan for costly repairs. These contractors can fix problems with the foundation of a house before they become major issues that could cause the home to be unsafe and require extensive repairs.
Red flags to look out for when hiring a foundation repair contractor
Some warning signs that a contractor may not be reputable include asking for payment in full before work begins, demanding a large deposit, or refusing to provide a written contract. Be sure to get references from past clients and check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor.
- When dealing with a foundation contractor, ask for their license and a list of references from past clients. Ask for photos of previous projects they’ve completed or contact information to confirm that the company is real.
- Some warning signs that a contractor may not be reputable include asking for payment in full before work begins, demanding a large deposit, or refusing to provide a written contract.
- Ask for references! Request the license information, too. Ask for photos of previous projects they’ve completed or contact information to confirm that the company is real; we don’t want you to get scammed by a fake contractor who will take your money and run. Make sure that they’re insured and bonded as well.
- Don’t be scared to ask these tough questions, and don’t let a contractor rush you into signing anything. If they’re not interested in providing the information you need to make an informed decision about their services then that’s a big red flag that should send them packing.
- If the company is unwilling or unable to provide this vital information then they’re probably not a legitimate business. Chances are good that the contractor has something to hide and trying to dodge your questions is just another way of covering up their undesirable background.
- Be sure to make sure they put everything in writing. Contracts are your only proof of work done, so don’t let a contractor talk you out of it. If you pay them in cash or without a contract then there is no way to hold the company accountable for poor craftsmanship or shoddy repairs.
Best questions to ask a foundation repair contractor
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you have any references?
- How do you calculate your prices?
- What kind of warranty do you offer?
- Will you provide a written contract?
- How long have you been in business?
When should you hire a foundation contractor versus a structural engineer?
Contractors work hard to earn your trust and respect, but that doesn’t mean it’s not easy for them to take advantage of you. It’s important that before hiring a contractor, you know just what kind of service provider they are.
Hiring a foundation contractor is typically the best decision when repairing or building a foundation, as they have the necessary experience and knowledge to complete the project. However, if you have any concerns about your contractor’s legitimacy or experience, it is always best to consult with a structural engineer to ensure the safety of your home.
There may also be certain situations where you should hire a structural engineer instead of a foundation contractor. For example, if you are thinking about excavation or “digging down” with the intent to level your floor for a lower-level remodel, it’s best to have your home inspected by a licensed architect or engineer that specializes in foundational repair.
Hiring a foundation contractor doesn’t have to be difficult!
When it comes to hiring a foundation repair contractor, you want to make sure that you do your research and ask the right questions. There are a lot of shady contractors out there who will take advantage of homeowners who don’t know any better. By being aware of the red flags we’ve outlined in this article, you can avoid getting taken advantage of by one of these contractors and end up with a quality repair job that lasts.
