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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, 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. 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 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 in addition to the insurance requirements also requires an exam. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.