How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor 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
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair company with a proven reputation for fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in California are required to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work 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 concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.