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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Illinois does not have any state-level licensing requirements; you'll need to verify local requirements with your city or municipal government. You can determine if a company's business registration is in good standing on the Secretary of State's website. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- 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 extra work.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
