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
Choose a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all types of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In the state of Minnesota, licensure is handled by the Department of Labor and Industry. Your contractor will likely have a Residential Builder license. To obtain this, an individual needs to have a business license, must pass an exam, and must provide proof of workers' compensation and general liability insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 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
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider 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.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.