How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair company with a proven reputation for fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors in Montana; however, any contractor that has employees must register with the Department of Labor and Industry. (Independent contractors also have the option to register.) Before hiring a contractor, you should check whether there are any local regulations in your city, county, or municipality. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally 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
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- 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.
Thoroughly reviewing 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. Repairing foundation problems quickly decreases the risk of future structural damage.