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
Choose a well-established local provider with a long track record of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Contractors in Iowa that earn over $2,000 a year from a trade are required to register with the Iowa Division of Labor. There are no state-level license requirements; licensing is handled by specific cities or municipalities. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider 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.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- 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.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.
