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 recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We recommend choosing a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct 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 needs to obtain a home improvement registration. This registration requires the contractor to hold general liability insurance and, if relevant, workers' compensation insurance. For projects over $75,000, a contractor will also need a Residential Building Contractor license, which in addition to the insurance requirements also requires an exam. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
