Finding Contractors Questions
How to find the right people.
How do I find reputable foundation contractors?
Start with referrals from people who've used them. Ask neighbors, coworkers, family. Online reviews help but can be gamed. Check their license and insurance before anything else.
Gary found his contractor through a coworker who'd had wall anchors installed. That personal referral gave him confidence.
Should I call a foundation company or a general contractor?
Foundation specialists have specific equipment and expertise. General contractors might subcontract the work anyway. For significant structural repair, I'd go with a specialist.
For minor waterproofing, a good general contractor or even a handyman might be fine.
Should I get an engineer's opinion first?
Yes, if you're unsure what you need. An engineer has no financial stake in the repair method. They'll tell you what's actually required. Then you can get contractor quotes knowing exactly what you need.
I wish I'd done this first. Would have saved me weeks of confusion.
Evaluating Quotes Questions
How to compare what you're getting.
Why are quotes so different for the same problem?
Different contractors might recommend different solutions. Company A wants to install carbon fiber straps. Company B prefers wall anchors. Company C says inject the cracks and wait.
They're not all wrong, but they're not all right either. An engineer can tell you which approach makes sense.
What should be included in a quote?
Specific scope of work. Materials to be used. Number of straps, anchors, or piers. Warranty terms. Timeline. What's included in cleanup. Any exclusions. Get it in writing.
My $8,200 quote was vague. Just "carbon fiber reinforcement." How many straps? Where exactly? No details.
Is the cheapest quote the best?
Not always. Cheapest might mean cutting corners, using inferior materials, or rushing the job. But most expensive doesn't guarantee quality either. Compare scope, materials, and reputation, not just price.
Should I ask for references?
Yes, and actually call them. Ask about the work done, how long it's held up, whether they'd hire the company again. One reference isn't enough; ask for three.
Red Flags Questions
Warning signs to avoid.
What red flags should I watch for?
High-pressure sales tactics. Limited-time offers. Demanding large deposits before work begins. No written contract. Won't explain what they're doing or why. Bad reviews or no verifiable track record.
One contractor told me I needed to decide today because prices were going up tomorrow. That's a sales tactic, not a foundation emergency.
Is a "free inspection" really free?
Usually, yes. But remember, free inspections from repair companies are sales calls. They make money by finding problems to fix. Take their assessments with appropriate skepticism.
An engineer's $350 assessment is actually cheaper if it saves you from an unnecessary $5,000 repair.
What if a contractor says it's urgent?
Sometimes it is, but usually it's not. Foundation problems develop slowly. Unless water is actively flooding in or a wall is visibly failing, you have time to get second opinions.
Don't let urgency pressure you into quick decisions. A good contractor will give you time to think.
After Hiring Questions
Once work is underway.
What should I document during the work?
Photos before, during, and after. Note any deviations from the plan. Keep copies of all permits pulled. Get photos of any work that will be covered up, like anchor installations before backfilling.
What warranty should I expect?
Good companies offer 20-25 year or lifetime warranties on structural repairs. Waterproofing warranties vary more. Get warranty terms in writing. Understand what's covered and what voids the warranty.
Gary's wall anchors came with a 25-year transferable warranty. That adds value if he ever sells.
What if I'm unhappy with the work?
Document your concerns in writing immediately. Give the company chance to address them. If they refuse, you may need to involve the contractor licensing board or consider legal options.
Prevention is better. Check references, get detailed contracts, and monitor work as it happens.