How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Nebraska has no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, but all contractors must register with the Department of Labor. A contractor may receive an exemption if they make less than $5,000 per year. Any contracting company that has multiple employees must provide proof of workers' compensation insurance when registering. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
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 delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.