How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a company consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. 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
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.