How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right credentials, bonding, and coverage 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider 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.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
