How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and coverage 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 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 concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that could 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.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.