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
Pick a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In New Hampshire, there are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, although a contractor may be required to be licensed or registered to do any work with asbestos, septic systems, plumbing, and more. Be sure to check with your local government to learn if there are any city, county, or municipal contractor licensing requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally 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
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away lowers the risk of future structural damage.