How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Pick 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 provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty 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 your local government may have its 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 company that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What are some likely causes of my issues 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 unnecessary work.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor 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.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Fixing foundation problems quickly decreases the risk of future structural damage.
