How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company 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 reputable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Florida general contractor licenses are issued by the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Both General and Residential Contractors can complete projects on residential homes, and both types of contractors can be certified or registered. Certified contractors can 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
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that delivers long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
