How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. The state government of Indiana does not handle general contractor licensing, and you will need to verify a company or individual's license with your city or municipal government. You can confirm that a company's Indiana business license is in good standing on this website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.