How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Most general contractors in Idaho need to register with the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses Contractors Board (construction managers need to be licensed by the Division of Building Safety). Although 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 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 confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What foundation defects 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
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 long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.
