How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company 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
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. General contractors in California are required to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued at more than $500. To obtain a license, an individual needs to have at least four years of relevant 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade 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
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 unneeded work.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
