How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair provider with a proven reputation for fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In the state of Florida, general contractor licenses are managed by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can work on residential homes, and both types of contractors can be certified or registered. Certified contractors can work in any jurisdiction, while registered contractors are only permitted to work in the jurisdictions in which they are registered. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair 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
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.