How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has 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 shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. Florida general contractor licenses are issued by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can do work on residential homes, and both can be certified or registered. Certified contractors are permitted to 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
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
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 offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.