How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper 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 likely possess 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
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What foundation defects 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 unneeded work.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.