How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company regularly provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In New Hampshire, there are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, although contractors might be required to be licensed or registered to do any work with septic systems, asbestos, plumbing, and more. Be sure to check with your local government to learn if there are any contractor licensing requirements at the city or county level. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
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 cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.