Steps to foundation repair

 Questions to Ask a Foundation Repair Consultant

Before signing any contract, it's essential to know the answers to these key questions about potential foundation damage.

To gain a clearer understanding of why your foundation is failing and to explore effective solutions, consider consulting with an independent expert who has no vested interest in the process or company used.

For comprehensive assistance, whether through an on-site evaluation or remote consultations via phone, FaceTime, or Zoom, contact me, Richard, at  817-308-8186

More Information: Call/Text 817-308-8186

 Key Questions for Your Consultant

Understanding the Problem:

  1. What caused the foundation movement?
  2. Have you considered plumbing leaks, drainage issues, erosion, or other soil problems?
  3. What are your views on using elevations to determine repairs? (Note: Elevations taken without original construction benchmarks often lead to unnecessary pier recommendations. For a detailed explanation, call me at 817-308-8186.)

About the Repair Plan:

  1. Considering the speculative nature of elevations during structural movement, how would you decide if piers are needed, and if so, how many and where?  
  2. Are there less expensive or less invasive options to stabilize the movement?
  3. If I postpone repairs, what risks do I realistically face over the next 1–2 years?

Regarding the Warranty:

  1. Are warranties transferable if I sell the home? Are there any time limits or transfer costs?
  2. Do warranties cover cosmetic damage or only structural issues?
  3. Do they apply to the entire structure, or are there limitations?
  4. Do they cover upheaval as well as settlement? What could potentially void a warranty?

Bonus Honesty Test:

  1. If you were fixing this house for your mother, what approach would you take?

      

                                          Call or text: The Foundation Man, Richard Rash, at 817-308-8186

Please read below to understand the gravity of the above questions

Understanding Foundation Damage: A Consumer's Guide

Foundation damage can result from various events, each requiring specific repair approaches. Knowing the cause is crucial for effective solutions.

Choosing the Right Solution

Determining the cause will lead to selecting and applying the appropriate repair method. Many companies focus on installing highly profitable piers when better, more cost-effective solutions are available. 

Sales Practices

Most companies employ commission-based salespeople encouraged to maximize sales, often overselling products. This practice may not always align with the necessary repairs.

Elevation Measurements

Current elevation readings without original benchmarks often mislead customers. This practice is criticized as it often fails to provide accurate repair needs. 

Misconceptions About Piers

While commonly used, piers will usually not permanently resolve upheaval-related damage, which often stems from soil swelling rather than settling.

Arbitration and Warranties

Contracts often include arbitration clauses favoring the contractor in case of repair failures. Understanding these terms is crucial as they impact dispute resolution outcomes.

Lifetime Warranties

It's essential to scrutinize "lifetime warranties" as they typically protect the contractor more than the customer. 

Types of Repairs

Various repair methods exist, including different types of piers. Understanding the best choice for your situation is vital, considering potential biases in sales recommendations.

Addressing Upheaval

Upheaval, often caused by poor drainage or plumbing leaks, is a significant issue. Resolving these root causes can be more effective and economical than pier installations.

Industry Oversight

In Texas and other states lacking licensing or oversight for foundation repair, consumer protection can be limited. Anyone can become a foundation repair salesman without any qualifications.

This presentation highlights critical aspects of foundation repair, empowering consumers with knowledge to make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls in the repair process.

My recommendation is to contact me before calling a contractor. The more knowledge you have, the less chance of getting scammed. 

If you don't talk to me first, then at least get three bids, if they don't come up with very similar answers, including identical types of repairs and at very similar costs... then contact me! 

Richard Rash, Consultant, Author, Public Speaker, Expert Witness with over 40 years in the foundation repair business. Call/Text: 817-308-8186 seven days a week.   

  • Foundation repair companies sell piers...I provide education and solutions. AND if I don't help you, you don't pay me. How can you lose?