How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. In California, general contractors need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work on projects valued at more than $500. To apply for a license, an individual must 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. Individuals or businesses that have employees must also have workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its 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
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What are some likely causes of my issues 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 unneeded work.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems swiftly decreases the risk of future structural damage.