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 selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a well-established local provider with a long track record of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of Louisiana, general contractor licensing is handled by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. Contractors who work on home improvement projects valued between $7,500 and $75,000 needs to obtain a home improvement registration. This registration requires the contractor to hold general liability insurance and, if applicable, workers' compensation insurance. For projects 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
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
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.