How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair company with a proven reputation for fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company regularly provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right credentials, 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 be eligible for a license, an individual must 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. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation defects did you identify 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 extra work.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
