How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. General contractor licenses in Florida are given by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can work on residential houses, and both types of contractors can be certified or registered. Certified contractors are allowed to work in any jurisdiction, while registered contractors can only work in the jurisdictions in which they are registered. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- 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 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 completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems quickly lowers the risk of future structural damage.