Choosing the right basement waterproofing company can be a difficult task. There are many companies to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The best thing you can do is arm yourself with knowledge about the process of waterproofing in order to know what questions to ask when contacting potential contractors. If you’re thinking about hiring a contractor for your basement waterproofing project, here are some tips to help you choose the right one.
1. Make Sure They’re Licensed and Insured
Waterproofing is a complicated process that requires specific knowledge and expertise, not to mention expensive equipment. You don’t want to hand over your home and money to someone who may be under-qualified or uninsured. The basement waterproofing company you choose should have the proper licenses from their state department of labor, as well as insurance for their workers.
2. Get a Sample of Their Work
If the company doesn’t want to provide you with samples of their previous work, consider it a red flag. A reputable contractor will not hesitate to show you examples of their past projects and discuss why they were successful. If the company offers excuses or avoids this part of the conversation, there may be something to hide.
3. Ask If the Company Uses Subcontractors
Even if a company is reputable and has all the necessary licenses and insurance, they may use subcontractors for some aspects of their work. Be sure to ask if the contractor you’re working with will be completing all parts of your project or if they plan to subcontract. This is important because subcontractors may not have the same level of experience or knowledge as your main contractor.
4. Ask About the Company’s Process
Effective waterproofing is a process with multiple steps, some of which can take several days to complete. Be sure to ask your contractor about the company’s process to know exactly what will be done in your home and when it will be done.
5. Get It in Writing
Contractors should be more than willing to provide you with a quote and contract. If they aren’t, be aware that this could indicate problems further down the road. You want to feel confident that both you and your contractor understand what is expected of each other. A good way to do this is by creating a written contract that outlines each party’s responsibilities.
Wet basements are common in the United States, with roughly 98% of houses having one at some point. If your basement is experiencing problems with moisture, you will need to select a basement waterproofing company to waterproof it. Be sure to follow these tips to select the right contractor for your basement’s needs.