What Qualifications Do Foundation Repair Contractors Need?
Your home's foundation is the most critical part of your entire structure, and you need to make sure if any issues arise, they are fixed quickly and correctly...
Your home's foundation is the most critical part of your entire structure, and you need to make sure if any issues arise, they are fixed quickly and correctly. It is not a DIY type of project, or you can end up doing more harm than good. If cracks in your foundation appear, it may not be a simple caulk and go. You need to hire a licensed foundation repair contractor who can do it right to prevent further damage. The question is, what qualifications do foundation repair contractors need?
When looking for the right contractor, you need to do your research, find out what they do, and ask several questions. Your decision should not be based on their advertising methods, price, or how quickly they claim they can get the job done. A good rule of thumb when hiring anyone is if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take a look at what professionals offer by visiting https://pittsburghfoundationrepairpros.com/ after you read the helpful information found below.
State Requirements for Foundation Repair
Each state varies by what licenses are required for foundation repair contractors, and only 36 states require specific licensing. In the remaining states, it is considered part of the general contractors licensing. Depending on which state you are in, the contractor may not have to be approved at a state but a county level.
Foundation repair contractors in Pennsylvania fall under the general contractors licensing requirements and do not need to be licensed under the state unless their yearly income exceeds over $5,00 per year. If your income falls below this, you only need to be licensed in the county their business is in. For example, a company located in Pittsburg would have to follow at least the minimum requirements.
What Qualifications Are Needed?
In Pittsburg, the minimum requirements are
- Good standing
- Tax compliance
- Standards of conduct
- License display
- Age requirements
- Insurance of at least $1,000,000
- Workers comp.
- Passing the ICC or NIULPE exam
- Continuing education
So that you know you don’t want a company that only meets the minimum requirements.
Questions to Ask When Interviewing A Foundation Repair Contractor
Most contractors you talk to will more than likely meet the minimum licensing requirements, but to be safe, you’ll want to ask for proof of both the license and the insurance. Below you’ll find a list of additional questions to ask before hiring a contractor to repair your foundation.
1. Have you had your foundation repair methods evaluated to ensure their products meet code compliance?
If their answer is no, you want to ensure that they get their materials from reputable suppliers. Product compliance means the material meets all regulatory requirements. Providing the materials they use are compliant means you can be assured they are safe and built to specific standards.
2. How long have you been in business?
You want a foundation repair company that is well-established. You’ll also want to make sure to check with the consumer protection officials. They will only be able to tell you if any complaints are unresolved on file. However, if the company works under different names, the information may not be accurate.
3. How do you train your employees?
You want the workers to undergo a thorough training process, and they are certified. If so, ask to see their certification. If employees are appropriately trained and prepared to use the tools required on the job, it helps to make sure they know what they are doing and poses fewer risks.
4. Do you have experience in projects similar to mine?
Ask for a list to help you determine how familiar they are with your repair needs. If the foundation repair company has a lot of experience making similar repairs, there is less risk that the project will be delayed or there will be job issues.
5. Ask for references
You want to ask for at least 3-5 references, including names and phone numbers. Ask how long ago it was and the amount of time it took to complete the job. Call the references to verify how well it went.
6. Will you bring subcontractors on the job?
If yes, you’ll want to meet them and ask for their insurance coverage and license. Another thing you want to make sure of is that the foundation contractor pays their subs on time. If not, they can place a lien on your property where they can take you to court and make you sell your house to pay them. To protect yourself, you want to ask for a lien release waiver.
7. Non-technical questions to ask?
- Who do you go to with issues during a project?
- How many vehicles will be on your property
- Will it cause issues for the neighbors?
- Will they bring their bathrooms or expect to use yours?
- How do they clean up at the end of the day?
- Do they perform background checks on their employees?
- How will the minimize damage to your yard, home, and landscaping
- What is the process if something is damaged?
8. What are their payment terms?
You do not want to deal with a foundation repair company that requires payment before the job is finished. If they do this, that is a big warning sign, and don’t hire them. Go over the contract and make sure to pay attention to their payment schedule. Do not make verbal agreements; instead, get everything in writing.
9. Why do I need the work done?
Answers to the following questions will help you determine if you should hire them or another contractor.
- What is wrong with the foundation?
- How are they going to fix it?
- Are there less expensive alternatives?
- What will happen if you need to wait a while?
10. Additional questions you should ask your contractor
- What does your inspection involve?
- Is your work certified?
- What type of piers do you recommend for stabilizing the foundation?
- What is the failure rate of those piers?
- What exactly does your warranty cover?
These questions are asked to get more information regarding the questions you asked above. The answers will help you determine if you’re choosing the right foundation repair contractor or if you should keep looking.
Make Sure You Choose The Right Foundation Repair Pro For Your Job
So, what qualifications do foundation repair contractors need? In order for your home to be safe, there are times when repairs are needed. If you discover that your foundation requires repair, you need to make sure that you hire someone with the qualifications to do the job right the first time. This means taking the time to talk to them, ask questions, and do as much research as possible.
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