How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with many years of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licenses in New Mexico are managed by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department Construction Industries Division. To get licensed, a contractor must have four years of experience in the last ten years, must pass an exam, and must be bonded. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its 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
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation defects did you find 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 trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
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 long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
