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 suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. 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 requesting local references helps you verify that a company consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. 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 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. 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
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs 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:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
