How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all types of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider 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 may be required to be licensed or registered to do any work with asbestos, septic systems, plumbing, and more. Make sure that you check with your local government to learn if there are any contractor licensing requirements at the city or county level. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide 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.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers long-lasting, quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.