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 do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all manner of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving 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
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. General contractor licenses in Florida are given by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can complete projects on residential houses, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements 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 repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.