How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a well-established local company with extensive experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. New York does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, but there may be regulations at the city or county level, so make sure that you check with your local government. You can look up a company's New York business license on this website. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company 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 specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
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 long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.