How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in Arkansas are licensed by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. For most home improvement projects, your contractor will likely hold a Residential Builders License. To obtain this license, a contractor must pass a law and business exam, submit references, and, if they have employees, show proof of workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws 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 unnecessary work.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, high-quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems swiftly reduces the risk of future structural damage.