How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that a company consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in Alabama are required to hold a license if they work on projects that are worth more than $50,000. To obtain a license, a contractor must show proof of general liability insurance to the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.