How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend choosing a local foundation repair company with a proven reputation for fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that a company consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in California need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued at more than $500. To obtain 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. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers typically 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 shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws did you find 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.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.