Common Causes of Foundation Problems in Arlington
A few factors can contribute to foundation issues. Here are the most common ones for Arlington residents:
- Aging plumbing: The average Arlington home construction year is 1973. If you live in an older home, it's likely to have cast-iron plumbing. When the pipes start eroding, leaking water could reach your foundation and even pool beneath it.
- Soil composition: Soil with large sand or clay concentrations is highly expansive. In the heavy rainfall Arlington receives, the soil soaks up moisture like a sponge, then releases it in dry seasons. The constant expansion and contraction puts pressure on nearby foundations, even if the foundations keep dry.
- Standing water: Standing water around your home can be a menace to your foundation, especially when it gathers in areas your gutters don't cover.
How to Choose the Best Foundation Repair Company
To select a foundation repair business, you should determine what's most important to you. Use this list of attributes to help you navigate the process.
Licensing and Experience
The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation issues licenses to foundation repair companies. The license a company has determines what work it can do and what size projects it can handle. You can also get a sense of a company's experience through the information its team gives you. Inquire about local codes, fees, permit-pulling procedures and its inspection methods.
Contractor websites are some of the best places to do your research. Usually, a business will display how long it's been in the industry. It might also share articles to assist interested parties.
Customer Reviews
When you're researching a company's credibility, visit its Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. There, you can find its rating and a list of customer reviews, both positive experiences and complaints. Complaints don't mean a contractor is unreliable. BBB reviews show how the company addressed complaints. It's a positive sign if the company has settled issues favorably and proactively. You should avoid a company with many negative reviews, no licensure, and no communication regarding issues.
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Arlington Foundation Repair FAQ
What will I pay to repair my foundation in Arlington?
Foundation repair costs about $2,700 in Arlington. The final numbers depend on how severe the damage is and what type of repair you need.
Will my homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Sometimes. Whether you'll have coverage depends on the types of policies you have and the cause of the foundation damage. Earthquake or flood insurance will typically cover foundation damage caused by those specific disasters. Homeowners insurance can cover damage from other disasters, but will not cover normal wear and tear. We recommend talking to your insurance agent about the extent of your policy and the process of filing a claim.
Are there any warranties or guarantees provided with Arlington foundation repair services?
Yes, Arlington foundation companies often back their work with warranties or guarantees. The specific terms of each program will vary by contractor, so you should ask about specific terms and conditions.
Are there telltale signs I should avoid a particular foundation company?
There are several signs that you should avoid a particular foundation company. Watch out for high-pressure sales tactics, lack of insurance, unresponsiveness, inadequate credentials, and poor online reviews. Above all, do your research, trust your instincts, and get multiple estimates for the best possible decision-making power.
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)
