Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Huntington
Some typical reasons why Huntington homeowners experience foundation problems include:
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be a menace to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your drainage system doesn't reach.
- Soil composition: Soil with large clay or sand concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Huntington receives, the soil absorbs moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction stresses nearby foundations, even if the foundations stay dry.
- Aging plumbing: Huntington has its fair share of older homes, with a median building year of 1962. Many of these properties use cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
Choosing a foundation contractor doesn't have to be difficult. We encourage you to jot down what you want most in a company, then evaluate each contractor on your list against these characteristics.
Licensing and Experience
New York's state government doesn't issue contracting licenses, but cities often choose to require them of foundation companies and other builders. For example, New York City requires foundation and excavating contractors to obtain a "Safety Registration Number" with a concrete work endorsement. They also need to register as a general contractor or home improvement contractor. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the details its representatives share. Inquire about fees, local codes, permit-pulling procedures and its inspection processes.
One of the simplest ways to assess a company's reputation is to go to its website. Look for the company's history and what credentials its team holds. Many leading companies publish educational content for future customers.
Customer Reviews
Before signing a contract with a company, review its online profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can examine both positive reviews and complaints. Complaints aren't necessarily a red flag in themselves. You want to discover how a company manages them. If the management team proactively and consistently resolves issues, it's a good sign. However, if the company lacks accreditation, has more negative reviews, and doesn't communicate well, you should avoid working with it.
Finally, we recommend you search different websites, such as Trustpilot and Google, for other reviews.
Expert Tips By
This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.
Huntington Foundation Repair FAQ
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Huntington?
Foundation repair costs about $2,900 in Huntington. The final numbers hinge on how severe the damage is and what type of repair you need.
What are the different types of foundations in Huntington?
Huntington-area homes use several foundation types, from concrete slabs and pier-and-beam foundations to crawlspaces and basements.
Is foundation repair covered under my homeowners insurance?
Sometimes. Whether you'll have coverage depends on the kind of insurance you have and why the foundation damage happened. Flood or earthquake insurance will typically cover foundation damage caused by those specific disasters. A standard homeowners policy can cover damage from other disasters, but will not cover normal wear and tear. We recommend consulting your insurance agent about your coverage and the process of filing a claim.
What are some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid?
Some "red flags" indicating a foundation company to avoid include negative feedback, lack of proper licensing or certification, unclear pricing, pushy salespeople, unsatisfactory guarantee terms, and unresponsive customer service.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
More Foundation Resources
National Foundation Repair Ranking Methodology
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau (American Communities Survey)