How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor 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 local foundation repair company with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company consistently provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In New York, general contractors do not have state-level licensing requirements, but there may be regulations at the city or county level, so be sure to check with your local government. You can look up a company's New York business license on this website. 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 confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to 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 extra work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.