How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Arkansas, general contractors are licensed via the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. For many home improvement projects, your contractor will probably have a Residential Builders License. To obtain this license, a contractor must pass a business and law exam, submit references, and, if they have employees, provide evidence of workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What are some likely causes 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.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.