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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. There are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors in New York, but there may be city or county regulations, so make sure that you check with your local government. You can verify the standing of a company's New York business license on this website. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.