Questions to Ask When Hiring Underpinning Contractor

The process that is used to strengthen the foundation of the building is called underpinning. Many times buildings lose their structural integrity because of ground shifting, and underpinning is the best solution to stabilize it. Moreover, the failing foundation can reduce the value of your property which is why underpinning is important. Underpinning contractor is a trained professional who can help you in finding out the issue with the foundation and fixing it.

 

To enjoy the extensive benefits of underpinning, it is crucial to choose the contractor carefully. While searching, you will come across several professionals committing to provide the best services, but don’t be fooled. Don’t get lured by their attractive websites and fancy words. Instead, meet them in person and ask them a set of questions to determine their authenticity and professionalism.

 

Now, probing further, let us see what the important questions are that you must ask your underpinning contractor.

 

Question #1. From how many years you are working as an underpinning contractor? 

You may think of this question as irrelevant. But, asking about the number of years, you will get to know about the experience of the contractor. And when it comes to hiring an underpinning contractor, experience matters a lot. Professional who has practised underpinning for several years has gathered immense knowledge and hence, can render you with better services. So, never skip asking this question.

 

Question #2. Do you have a license? 

License is the most important certificate that professional underpinning contractor must possess. It is so because underpinning is the job of a well-trained expert. High authorities permit only those people who have gone through the required training and have fulfilled all the formalities to be an underpinning contractor. So, never think of license as something unnecessary as it is easy to trust a licensed professional.

 

Question #3. Are you insured? 

After license, the certificate that you must check is insurance. Insured underpinning contractor will never hold you responsible for any mishap that may occur at your home during the underpinning job. The insurance will cover everything, and you will be prevented from falling under debts.

 

Question #4. Can you provide references? 

Getting the reference list, you can talk to the past clients of the underpinning contractor and can determine that you are hiring the most trusted professional. If the expert denies providing the list, then maybe his past clients were not happy with the services. In such a situation prefer looking for some other expert.

 

Question #5. How much time will it take to complete the underpinning job? 

If you know the time estimates, you can plan your schedule accordingly and can keep yourself free to be present at the location.

 

Question #6. Can you provide cost estimates? 

Cost estimations will help you in learning whether you can afford the services or not. Don’t hire the one who lowers down his prices just to make a deal with you. Such professionals only work for money and don’t provide quality.