How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research 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
Pick a local foundation repair company with significant experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In Georgia, general contractor licenses are issued by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. Contractors are required to provide proof of general liability insurance, pass an exam, and hold workers' compensation insurance (if they have employees). Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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 unnecessary work.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
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 delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.