How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in Arkansas are licensed via the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. A Residential Builders License will be sufficient for most home improvement projects. To obtain this license, a contractor must pass a law and business exam, submit references, and, if they have employees, provide evidence of workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.