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
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all types of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints describing 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 licenses are managed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. To work on home improvement projects valued between $7,500 and $75,000, a contractor will need 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 will also be required to 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.