How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of Michigan, licenses are issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Your contractor will likely possess a Residential Builder license. LARA also publishes a guide for homeowners who are looking to hire a contractor. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider 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
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs long-lasting, quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.