How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. You typically want to look for a general contractor license. In Connecticut, this may be called a Home Improvement Contractor license. These licenses are handled by the Department of Consumer Protection. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that could 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 unnecessary work.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
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 long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.