>What should I know about choosing a contractor?

The contractor should be able to provide a copy of a current contractor’s license upon request. Make sure the license is in the name of the construction company and is current. Deep South Associates, LLC carries licenses in Suffolk County, Nassau County, New Jersey and Louisiana.

“May I have the name of your insurance provider so I can verify your insurance?”

Shoring contractors should have general liability as well as workman’s compensation coverage. The insurance provider(s) will send proof of insurance directly to the homeowner upon request. Be sure to check the company name on the insurance certificate, and that address listed is the correct address of the property to be elevated.

“Does your company carry supplemental insurance?”

Shoring contractors may carry Riggers insurance or extra insurance to address other potential losses during the course of work. Deep South Associates, LLC carries Riggers liability insurance.

“Does your shoring company use an engineer?”

A registered civil engineer is required by law to review, add a stamp of approval, and submit the scope of work to the local government, before the contractor can obtain an elevation permit. Engineers’ licenses can be checked at: www.lapels.com.

“How long have you been in business locally?”

Homeowners should know how much experience an elevation contractor has had in the local area. Because the soil structure locally is unique, have an experienced local contractor is likely to be more familiar with particular problems that could arise. In addition, a local contractor may be available to address any future foundation problems. Contractors with only a Post Office box as an address should be investigated further.

“Can you provide references to jobs that I can go see?”

It can help to look at other work that a contractor has done for others to get an idea of the quality of work proposed for on your own house. Deep South Associates will supply references upon request.

“What is the warranty or guarantee, in case of a construction problem?”

While many elevation contractors offer warranties, often only the individual foundation piers are covered. . Resulting damage to the home may not be included. Better established companies may have the means to remedy problems insurance does not come through, assuming the problem was the fault of the’ contractor. The Better Business Bureau provides mediation services as well as background information for BBB member.

>Why do I have to elevate my home?

If you had hurricane flood damage or you are below the base flood elevation for the area, your house may need to be elevated in order to qualify for assistance from FEMA and funding from your insurance company in the case of future hurricane flooding. Since this is a requirement for many of us, you may be eligible for funding, up to $160,000. You may call Deep South to answer the questions you must ask to ensure your protection. It is essential that you begin the process today in order that your family home is protected and insured. There is a time limit on grant funding opportunities, and it is imperative that you begin the application process immediately.

>Does Deep South know how high I should lift my home?

Deep South’s qualified personnel will ensure that your home meets all federal, state, parish, county, town, and village requirements needed to elevate your home or business.

>Are all Deep South employees qualified to provide this service?

Our management team and engineers are qualified and experienced to manage home elevation projects. We are licensed and insusred in the state of Louisiana, New York and New Jersey. Our mitigation specialists also are qualified to help you through the application process, and we understand how grant funding is allocated. We work closely with the state to make sure we get the funding for your home elevation project. Our team works together to provide excellent service and results, and you are a
part of our team. We are licensed and insured. We have all of the required licensing from the State Licensing Board and we also maintain several other classifications not required.

>Does Deep South guarantee its work?

Customers will be provided a warranty for Deep South’s elevation work, which is transferable with the home for the life of the structure.

>How long am I out of my home?

There are two types of elevation projects, slab elevation and pier and beam elevation. If you have a slab elevation, you will only be out of your home during the time we are actually elevating the house, usually a few days.

If your home requires pier and beam type of elevation, which is typically off the ground already, the amount of time you will need to vacate you property is longer.

>Do you provide services in addition to the elevation (i.e., landscaping, stucco, painting)?

Yes. These services may or may not be covered under the grant program, but we will be more than happy to provide you with a cost estimate for any additional services.

>What is the largest building Deep South can lift?

Deep South Shoring owns a Jahns 16 and Jahns 24 unified hyrdraulic system. No job is too large or too small.

>Are any incentives available to recommend your company to my neighbors and friends?

We strive to have the best product on the market, and we know the importance of meeting each and every homeowner’s expectations. This is how we create customers who give us referrals. We offer $500 for every funded referral.