How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Carefully 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
It's important to select a provider that has the right licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Louisiana, general contractor licensing is handled by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. To work on home improvement projects valued between $7,500 and $75,000, a contractor must obtain a home improvement registration. This registration requires the contractor to hold general liability insurance and, if relevant, workers' compensation insurance. If a project is valued at over $75,000, a contractor must also have a Residential Building Contractor license, which on top of the insurance requirements also requires an exam. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- 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 foundation flaws did you identify 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 unneeded work.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.
