How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company consistently provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. 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. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up 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 the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you have? 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 unneeded work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
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 high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.