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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with extensive experience successfully completing all manner of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints describing faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of Michigan, licenses are managed by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Your contractor will probably hold a Residential Builder license. LARA also provides 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
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer 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 guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 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 extra work.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.
