How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation flaws did you find 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 trying to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will the 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 steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.