How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with comprehensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Arizona, all contractors are required to be licensed via the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, unless working on a job that is valued at less than $1,000 and that doesn't need a permit. To get a license, contractors must have four years of experience, be bonded, and pass an exam. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
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 offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.
