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 do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid credentials, bonding, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality 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:
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for this 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.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
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 offers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.