How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that a company consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In New York, general contractors do not have state-level licensing requirements, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may 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 unneeded work.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.