How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with extensive experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that a company consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In Colorado, general contractors don't require a state license, but many local governments have their own requirements. If you want to verify that a contractor has a valid business license, you can do this on the Secretary of State's website. 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 repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting 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 protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- 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 trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer 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 financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
