How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. General contractor licenses in Florida are given by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can work on residential homes, and both types of contractors can be certified or registered. Certified contractors can work in any jurisdiction, while registered contractors may only 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 transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers 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 are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this 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 offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.