How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with extensive experience successfully handling all types of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. There is no state-level licensing in Illinois; you'll need to check with your city or municipal government to learn about any local requirements. You can determine if a company's business registration is in good standing on the Secretary of State's website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.