How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider 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 well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Most general contractors in Idaho are required to register with the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses Contractors Board (construction managers must be licensed via the Division of Building Safety). While there are no state-level licensing requirements, there may be local regulations established by your city, county, or municipal government. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.