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 suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with significant experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship 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 company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, 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 must obtain a home improvement registration. This registration requires proof of general liability insurance and, if relevant, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.