subject: Foundation Repair- How to Make Sure You Don't Get Ripped Off [print this page] If you think your home could be experiencing foundation problems, you're probably more than a bit worried. After all, your foundation supports your entire house. So you want to make sure it gets fixed correctly, but you also don't want to go broke in the process. The cost of your foundation repair depends on two factors:
1. The type of foundation problem
2. The contractor you call
As far as number one is concerned, you have no control over the cause of your cracking foundation. However, you can control the second one.
It's pretty sad, but the truth is that there are plenty of foundation repair contractors out there who make their small fortune preying upon people just like you. They hike up prices, perform inadequate repairs, offer you services you don't needbasically anything they can do to squeeze a few extra bucks out of you.
So how do you avoid falling victim to one of the predators?
1. Hit the web. Thanks to the internet, you can perform extensive research on a contractor. Find their website and see if it looks like they know what they're doing. Also see what their rating is on the Better Business Bureau's website. This tool is especially useful as it contains objective information on the company. If the contractor doesn't have a website and isn't registered with the Better Business Bureau, don't waste your time. There are plenty of companies out there to move on to.
2. Get multiple estimates. If you only get one estimate, you're setting yourself up for failure. How can you adequately compare prices if you don't have anyone to compare to? A good rule of thumb is to get at least 3 estimates. Remember:
A reliable contractor doesn't charge for an estimate.
Lowest price isn't always best.
Really high prices don't necessarily mean really good work.
While the estimate comparison process is a good way to look at prices, it also creates an opportunity for you to meet the people who could be working in your home. Speak with them and see how they make you feel. You should be able to spot someone who doesn't know what they're talking about pretty quickly. Also, if they're the pushy salesman type, don't hire them! A real professional will be confident, but let their work speak for itself.
3. What are other people saying? Search for customer reviews. A good company has lots of happy customers. On the other side of that coin, the contractor who can't be trusted will likely have evidence of unhappy customers. Can't find any customer information? Maybe they're a brand new company. In that case, look elsewhere. You want an experienced professional handling your foundation repair.
Remember, a reliable foundation repair contractor will wear their references like a badge, proving their superior customer service. You shouldn't even have to ask.
Don't let yourself get taken advantage of. Take every available precaution to ensure that your foundation gets fixed in a cost effective manner. Search for an honest, reliable foundation repair contractor today!
Foundation Repair- How to Make Sure You Don't Get Ripped Off
