How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Iowa, contractors that earn over $2,000 a year from a trade are required to register with the Iowa Division of Labor. There aren't any state-level license requirements; licensing is handled by specific cities or municipalities. 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
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. 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 protect you from unexpected costs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation flaws did you find during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.