How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all manner 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 the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In Michigan, licenses are issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Your contractor will most likely have 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade 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 if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation flaws did you find 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 extra work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.