How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In Louisiana, general contractor licenses are granted 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 will also be required to 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
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- 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 unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems swiftly lowers the risk of future structural damage.
