10 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Foundation Repair Project

Your home’s foundation is critical to its stability and safety, so tackling foundation repair is no small task. Whether it’s due to cracks, settling, or water damage, starting a founrdation repair project requires careful planning and the right questions.

Asking the right questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you hire a trustworthy contractor. Here are 10 essential questions to guide you through the process.

Jump to article sections:

1. What Is the Cause of My Foundation Problem?
2. What Repair Methods Do You Recommend?
3. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Certified?
4. Can You Provide References or Testimonials?
5. What Will the Repair Timeline Look Like?
6. How Much Will the Repair Cost?
7. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee?
8. Will This Repair Affect Other Parts of My Property?
9. What Steps Will Be Taken to Prevent Future Issues?
10. Do You Offer any Financing Options?

1. What Is the Cause of My Foundation Problem?

Understanding the root cause of your foundation issue is key to ensuring the right repair method is used. Issues can range from soil settlement and water damage to tree root growth or poor initial construction.

A reputable contractor should perform a thorough inspection and explain what’s causing the problem. For example, if water pooling around your home is the culprit, they may recommend additional steps like improving drainage systems or basement waterproofing to prevent future damage.

2. What Repair Methods Do You Recommend?

Different foundation issues require different solutions. The contractor should walk you through their recommended foundation repair methods for your house, whether it’s piering, underpinning, slabjacking, or sealing cracks. Ask for an explanation of why they believe this approach is best and how it will address the underlying issue. Remember, no one-size-fits-all solution exists in foundation repair.

3. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Certified?

Foundation repair is a specialized field, so it’s essential to hire a licensed and insured contractor. When wondering how to select a foundation repair company, start with this basic requirement – are you licensed, insured and certified? Licensing ensures they meet local regulations, while insurance protects you from liability if something goes wrong during the repair.

4. Can You Provide References or Testimonials?

Reputable contractors should have no problem providing references or reviews from past clients. Don’t hesitate to contact these references to ask about their experience, the quality of the repair, and the contractor’s professionalism. Online reviews on platforms like Google or Angi can also give valuable insights.

5. What Will the Repair Timeline Look Like?

One of the most common, and important, questions to ask before starting the project is how long will foundation repair take? While some foundation repairs can be completed in a day, others may take weeks, depending on the severity of the issue. Ask about potential delays or factors that could extend the timeline, such as weather or unexpected findings during the repair.

6. How Much Will the Repair Cost?

Foundation repair costs can vary significantly depending on the method and severity of the issue. Ask for a detailed estimate that includes labor, materials, and any additional expenses like permits or post-repair cleanup. Beware of contractors who give vague or unusually low estimates, as this can be a red flag.

Working with a qualified contractor can mean a higher price tag, but foundation repair is not an easy project. If you’re still unsure about investing in foundation repair after receiving a quote from a reputable contractor, read our guide “Is Foundation Repair Worth the Price Tag?”

7. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee?

A strong warranty is a good indicator of a contractor’s confidence in their work. Ask about the terms of the warranty, what it covers, and how long it lasts. For example, some contractors may offer lifetime guarantees on specific repairs, while others might provide limited warranties. Ensure you receive the warranty in writing.

8. Will This Repair Affect Other Parts of My Property?

Foundation repairs can sometimes disrupt other areas of your property, such as landscaping, driveways, or interior flooring. A trustworthy contractor should inform you of any potential impacts and suggest ways to minimize damage. For instance, they may recommend routes for heavy equipment that won’t damage your yard.

9. What Steps Will Be Taken to Prevent Future Issues?

No one wants to deal with recurring foundation problems. Ask your contractor about preventive measures they can implement to avoid future damage. This might include improving water drainage around your home, installing a sump pump, or addressing soil stabilizations.

10. Do You Offer any Financing Options?

Foundation repair can be a significant investment, and not everyone is prepared to pay the entire cost upfront. Many companies offer financing options to make repairs more affordable. Ask about payment plans, interest rates, and any up-front fees to find a solution that works for your budget.

At Zablocki Waterproofing in Milwaukee, we have decades of experience in foundation repair and would be happy to answer any of these questions and more. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality, long-lasting solutions for all your foundation repair needs. Trust Zablocki for the best in Milwaukee foundation repair, basement repair and basement waterproofing! Call today!