How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
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 any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Missouri does not offer state-level general contracting licenses (although an individual may hold a professional engineering license from the Division of Professional Regulation). General contractor requirements are established at the city, county, or municipal level. You can verify a company's business license on this website. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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 foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- 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 vague answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems quickly lowers the risk of future structural damage.