How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level general contractor licenses in Missouri (although an individual may hold a professional engineering license from the Division of Professional Regulation). General contracting requirements are handled at the local level. You can verify a company's business license on this website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- 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 unneeded work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly assessing 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 long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.