A home is the single largest investment most people will make in their lifetime, and protecting that investment is essential. One of the greatest threats to homes is water damage, with data from insurance industry research indicating that 37 percent of homeowners in the U.S. have suffered losses from water damage. Unfortunately, water damage in a home can be difficult to recognize and treat, which is why many homeowners opt to waterproof their homes before problems grow out of hand. It is an investment that can pay off significantly. There is a lot of waterproofing companies to choose from, finding the right one can be difficult.
Waterproofing a basement can protect the safety and health of all who live there as well as their possessions. It is also an important step for protecting the foundation of the home.
Top 5 Things To Look For When Hiring A Waterproofing Company
Waterproofing is a complicated job that should not be attempted as a do-it-yourself project by someone without the proper knowledge; it is best to hire a professional waterproofing company to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. It requires significant skill, and the ideal company will employ bonded and licensed professionals with plenty of experience. Outlined below is a closer look at the top five qualities to look for when hiring a waterproofing company.
Is The Company Bonded, Insured Or Licensed?
The most important consideration when hiring a waterproofing company is whether they are bonded, insured or licensed as these measures provide consumers with important forms of protection. They can also offer some degree of recourse if something goes wrong.
Bonding protects the consumer should the contractor fail to complete the job, pay for permits or meet other financial obligations such as supply costs. Homeowners can ask the company they are considering for its bond number and certification and verify it independently.
It is also important that the company is insured. Liability insurance covers damage to a home caused by contractors, while worker’s compensation covers lost wages and medical expenses for workers who are injured at a customer’s home. Ask the company for their insurance certificates and check whether their policies are current before hiring them.
Licensing is also important as unlicensed employees might lack proper training or carry out substandard work. Some types of waterproofing might require a local building permit, and an inspector may stop work on a project if a contractor does not have the appropriate licenses. Checking for insurance, bonding and licenses only takes a few minutes, and it provides more reassurance that the professionals in question are reliable and reputable.
Do They Specialize In Waterproofing?
Waterproofing requires a specific skill set, and choosing a company that specializes in these processes can help ensure high-quality work. Skilled waterproofers will be aware of all the factors that can influence the end result, and those who do this regularly will have the right knowledge and experience to minimize potential problems. A good waterproofing company can take care of every aspect of the job, including issues such as mold testing and foundation repairs if necessary.
Do They Have The Correct Infrastructure?
A waterproofing company must have the right infrastructure to carry out their work effectively. Those that have basic equipment and lean staff may not provide the level of service necessary for effective waterproofing. Look for companies that have sufficient manpower and professional equipment to address the many issues that could arise during waterproofing.
How Long They Have Been In Business?
The number of years a company has been in business can be a good indicator of its quality. Some experts suggest looking for a company that has been operating for at least 10 years. Experienced waterproofers will have been in the business long enough to know how to address any unexpected issues or correct past work that was not done properly. This does not mean that newer companies cannot do a good job, but they may not be able to offer the right warranty for their work.
Their Online Reviews & Testimonials
Review websites can be a valuable resource when researching waterproofing companies. Most businesses will share testimonials on their own website, but impartial reviews are a far better reflection of the company’s work ethic and quality. Sites like Angie’s List offer reviews from verified customers in specific locations. You can search “Delaware Basement Waterproofing” and find searches for multiple companies in your area. One or two negative reviews are not necessarily a deal-breaker, but look out for waterproofing companies that are attracting a lot of negative attention. It can also be helpful to ask for recommendations from acquaintances who have had waterproofing work done.
Reach Out To Professional Waterproofing Contractors
Taking a proactive approach to protecting a home can pay off in the long run. Waterproofing is a serious job that has the potential to protect a home from significant damage, so it is essential to enlist experts with plenty of experience to ensure the job is done right. If you are seeking waterproofing services, reach out to the professional waterproofing contractors at Waterproof Caulking & Restoration LLC.