How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with a long track record of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company consistently provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper 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 obtain a license, an individual needs to have at least four years of related 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. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What foundation flaws 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 options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.