26 Oct Factors to Consider when Looking for Piling Companies
Piling is a highly specialist field, and it’s easy for a customer to feel overwhelmed when faced with the choice of companies. Is there really any way of to decide other than to pick the top result on Google? Fortunately there is, but you have to be willing to do a bit of research. Here are a few of the questions you should be asking your selection of piling contractors.
Piling Contractors Questions You Should Be Asking
How Experienced Is the Company?
The company should specialise in piling or have a dedicated division, so avoid a general construction company that offers piling as a sideline. There are many different types of piling*, and the company will need to assess which is the right one for your project, as well as undertaking the work. Make sure their track record covers a full range of piling.
Is the Piling Contractors Company Registered?
The ASUC assesses piling companies and registers those that meet its standards in
- Technical ability
- Quality management
- Health and Safety
- Environmental
- Training
- Insurance and financial audit
Checking whether the company is registered with the ASUC will go a long way towards reassuring you that you’ll get a good job done.
View our ASUC certification
Does It Have the Right Expertise and Equipment?
Some companies can offer a reasonable service, but only because they hire in the equipment and specialists they need. You might get a good job done, but the extra costs involved will be passed on to you. Make sure the company you choose already has everything it needs.
Does The Piling Contractors Offer a Guarantee?
A company that’s confident in its ability to deliver an excellent piling job should be willing to back that up by guaranteeing its work. If they’re not willing to offer at least a 10-year Defect Insurance guarantee, it might be worth re-examining their credentials. Perhaps there’s a reason for their unwillingness.
What Do Its Customers Say?
It’s very difficult these days to hide anything from the scrutiny of the internet, and you’ll be able to find customers’ reviews and reactions. Don’t just go by the ones on the company’s own website — hopefully these are honest, but of course only the good reviews will be used. Put the company’s name into the search engine and see what comes up, and look out particularly for companies that get repeat customers. That suggests they’re doing something right.
How Much Will It Cost?
The bottom line isn’t everything, but it does matter. Weigh up everything against the cost. As we’ve seen, a high cost may suggest a poorly equipped company, rather than paying for quality.
At Underpin & Makegood, we’re happy to be entirely open to prospective customers. Contact us to find out more.