FOUNDATION PROBLEMS – AVOIDING CONTRACTOR FRAUD
The current severe drought is causing the Houston area “gumbo” soil to shrink making concrete foundations crack, and older pier and beam homes to shift. Floors will slope, sheetrock will crack, and doors stick.
Foundation repair companies are having land office business. As with any weather-related repair crisis (flooding, hail damage, freeze damage), unscrupulous businesses will take advantage of the situation.
To avoid problems, have patience and be cautious, it can save you from disappointment or being scammed.
Foundation repair can run into tens of thousands of dollars. In a project this large, it is advisable to consult with a professional engineer. You need an opinion that is not based on a salesman trying to make a sale.
Get multiple bids, at least 3. Each company will give you a different diagnosis, a different solution, and a different price.
Once you get the bids, check out the companies. How long have they been in business? Ask for references and contact the people they have done work for. Run a check with the county court records to see if they have been sued, or if they have judgments against them. Take the bids and show them to the Professional Engineer who did your survey.
Concerning a down payment, see if they will accept payment after the work is completed. If they demand 50%, offer 25%. For any deposit of more than $5,000 Texas law requires the contractor put the funds in a Construction Trust Fund Account and provide you with an accounting of how the money is spent. It is a misdemeanor for a contractor not to have a Construction Trust Fund established. If they don’t have one, run, don’t walk away.
Be skeptical of warranties. Nationwide, nearly half of all companies go out of business within 5 years. Foundation warranties, even “lifetime” ones are notorious for what they don’t cover. Read and be aware BEFORE you sign.
If you are going to pay ten thousand, twenty thousand or more dollars for foundation repair, it is a good idea to consult an attorney for a modest fee before you sign. It could save you a world of pain.
Contemplating a major repair on your home, or are having problems with your contractor? Consult with the Law Office of Elliott Klein, PLLC for an evaluation.