How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In California, general contractors need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work 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 law and business and a trade exam, and must be bonded. Individuals or businesses that have employees must also have workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may 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 extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide 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.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
