How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Contractors in the state of Maryland will be licensed through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, part of the Department of Labor. To be licensed, an individual must have two years of experience, must pass an exam, and must provide proof of general liability insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 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
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- 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 unneeded work.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of warranties are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What exact 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 project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.