How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In California, general contractors must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued at $500 or more. To apply for a license, an individual needs to have at least four years of related work experience in the last decade (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
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years 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
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may 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.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.