How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
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 providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In 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 may 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 provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, 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
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select 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 avoid future structural damage.