How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company 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
Find a local foundation repair provider with comprehensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that the 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 provider 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 Besides this, there aren't any state-level licensing requirements, but you should be sure to speak with someone from your city, county, or municipal government to learn about local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
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 faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- 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 extra work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.