How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in California must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work on projects valued over $500. To obtain 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 business and law and a trade exam, and must be bonded. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that delivers high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.