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
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with many years of successfully fixing foundations. 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
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. 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 contracting requirements are set at the city, county, or municipal level. You can verify a company's business license on this website. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.