How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Arkansas, general contractors are licensed via the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. A Residential Builders License will be sufficient for the majority of home improvement projects. To get licensed, a contractor must pass a business and law exam, submit references, and, if they have employees, obtain workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What repairs do 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 foundation defects did you identify during inspection that could 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 unneeded work.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.