How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repairs would 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 foundation defects 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 unnecessary work.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.