How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair provider with a proven reputation for fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have expertise in the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
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 great customer service. Take note of complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has valid licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In California, general contractors need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work on projects valued over $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. 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
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 confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Fixing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.
