How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a great customer 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 handled by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can complete projects on residential houses, 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? 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 expenses.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor 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 foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that could 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.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly decreases the risk of future structural damage.
