How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business 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
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair company with a well-established track record of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company consistently provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
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 belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What foundation defects did you find 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.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.