How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct 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
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans 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 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
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What are some likely causes of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.