How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. All contractors in Arizona must be licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, unless a job is valued at less than $1,000 and doesn't need a permit. To get a license, contractors must have four years of experience, pass an exam, and be bonded. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.