How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Kentucky, general contractor licenses are issued by local governments rather than the state government. You can verify that a contracting company has a valid business license on the Secretary of State's website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company 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 foundation repair 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
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs long-lasting, quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly lowers the risk of future structural damage.
