How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In California, general contractors must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work on projects valued at more than $500. To apply for 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 business and law 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 concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you find 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 extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
