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
Choose a well-established local provider with a long track record of experience successfully handling all manner of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. General contractor licenses are not granted by the Indiana state government, so you will need to verify licensure with your city or municipal government. You can confirm that a company's Indiana business license is in good standing on this website. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. 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
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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 extra work.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly reduces the risk of future structural damage.