How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in California must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued over $500. To apply for a license, an individual must have at least four years of relevant work experience in the last ten years (or be represented by someone who does), must pass both a law and business and a trade exam, and must be bonded. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- 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.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Carefully assessing 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. Fixing foundation problems quickly decreases the risk of future structural damage.
