How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these key factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In Florida, general contractor licenses are handled 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
