How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. 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
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company regularly provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Contractors in New Jersey must hold general liability insurance, and must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Division of Consumer Affairs Beyond this, there are no state-level licensing requirements, but be sure to speak with someone from your city, county, or municipal government to learn about any local regulations. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What are some likely causes 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 options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.