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 recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, and coverage 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 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. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What foundation flaws 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer 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? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.