How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of 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 types of contractors can be certified or registered. Certified contractors are permitted to 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What foundation defects 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 trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.