How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of 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 proof of 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. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws did you find 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 extra work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
