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
Look for a reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. 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 requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In New Jersey, contractors must provide proof of liability insurance and register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the Division of Consumer Affairs Beyond this, there are no requirements for licensing at the state level, but you should be sure to speak with someone from your city, county, or municipal government to learn about local regulations. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.