How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly 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 provider with a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has valid credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In New York, general contractors do not have state-level licensing requirements, 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed 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 warranties do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation flaws did you find 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 unnecessary work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.
