How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. New York does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, but there may be city or county regulations, so make sure that you 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What financing options do you have? 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 protect yourself 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 unneeded work.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.