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 local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Most general contractors in Idaho need to register with the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses Contractors Board (construction managers need to be licensed via the Division of Building Safety). While there are no state-level licensing requirements, your city or municipal government may have local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.