How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with extensive 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 checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any 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. General contractors in California need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board before working on projects valued at $500 or more. To be eligible 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 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
Pick a provider 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 specific questions such as:
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- 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 unnecessary work.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
