How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. 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
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In California, general contractors need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued over $500. To apply for a license, an individual needs to have at least four years of related work experience in the last ten years (or be represented by someone who does), must pass both a business and law 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
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method would you recommend for this 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.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
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 delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.
