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 reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In the state of Minnesota, general contractor licensing is handled by the Department of Labor and Industry. In most cases, your foundation contractor will have a Residential Builder license. To get one, an individual must have a business license, must pass an exam, and must show proof of workers' compensation and general liability insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What exact repair method do 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 generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 extra work.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.