How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company regularly provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. The government of Illinois does not have any state-level general contractor licensing requirements; you'll need to check with your city or municipal government to learn about any local requirements. You can verify a company's business registration on the Secretary of State's website. 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 work. 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
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.