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
Look for a reputable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing all foundation types. 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
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the 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
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in California are required to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board in order to work on projects valued at $500 or more. To be eligible for 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. If an individual or business has employees, workers' compensation insurance is also required. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What foundation defects did you identify 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 attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.