How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company 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
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the 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
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Michigan, licenses are managed by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Your contractor will likely possess a Residential Builder license. LARA also provides a guide for homeowners who are looking to hire a contractor. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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 repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality 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 repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor 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.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- 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 trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.
