How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. In Kansas, general contractor requirements are set by your local city, country, or municipality. There are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors. You can verify that a business has a current valid registration through the Secretary of State's website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What foundation defects 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.