How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend choosing a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Florida general contractor licenses are handled by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can do work on residential houses, and both can be certified or registered. Certified contractors can work in any jurisdiction, while registered contractors can only work in the jurisdictions in which they are registered. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work 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:
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- 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 foundation defects did you find 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 attempting to bill you for extra work.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.