How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that a 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
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In New Jersey, contractors must hold general liability insurance, and must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Division of Consumer Affairs There are no other state-level licensing requirements, but be sure to check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn about any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that could 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.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.