Research foundation-fix firms prior to hiring
The erratic Texas weather can wreak havoc on a foundation. All homes settle and adjust with time, so it’s not uncommon for your foundation to develop minor cracks, which don’t necessarily need repair. At the same time, it is important to be proactive when it comes to foundation repair, as identifying potential problems early means less complicated and less expensive repairs. Likewise, foundation problems can cause damage to the rest of your home.
Regardless of how expensive or attractive a home or building is, without a proper foundation, the structure is at risk. The most common signs of foundation issues that need attention include uneven floors, mold build-up in closets, weak spots in flooring, and doors and windows sticking or not latching properly.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas reminds consumers of the importance of choosing wisely when it comes to searching for a trustworthy foundation specialist and recommends the following tips to help consumers find reputable foundation repair companies:
• Do your homework. Check with the BBB before choosing a contractor at BBBHouston.org. Get referrals, and compare several price quotes before making your final selection. Always confirm the contact information of the contractor you choose.
• Check with your insurance. Some homeowner’s insurance policies will cover foundation repair, so check with your insurance prior to signing a contract.
• Ask questions. Find out how long the company has been in business and what method of payment it accepts. Be sure to never pay in full up front. Also, ask who will be performing the work — whether employees of the company or temporary labor.
• Beware of red flags. High-pressure sales tactics, full up-front payment or low estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come are all red flags to look out for.
• Ask about warranties. Be sure you understand the warranty agreement before you sign the contract. In the foundation-repair industry, many contracts contain a clause indicating that conditions (such as structural deficiencies) might appear during foundation work that were not visible when the bid was submitted. In these cases, the desired results may not be obtained.
After the extended-warranty period, a service agreement may be available to cover beyond the warranty period at an additional cost. Other companies may not transfer the warranty if you sell the house or may charge a fee for the transfer. No matter what, the conditions of the warranty or guarantee should be listed in the contract clearly.
• Review your contract. Be sure to read, understand, and agree with everything listed in your contract. Do not sign a contract that has blanks or if you don’t agree with something. Make sure the work is being performed according to the bid proposal.
• Ask for before-and-after photos of the work performed. Check to make sure the workers clean up the area after the work has been completed.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit www. bbbhouston.org, which includes our BBB Accredited Business Directory, or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.