How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair company with a well-established track record of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long 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 in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation flaws 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.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.