How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these key factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Contractors in New Jersey must hold general liability insurance, and must register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Division of Consumer Affairs There are no other requirements for licensing at the state level, but you should 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its 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
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 unneeded work.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.