How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. 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
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct licenses, bonding, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade 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
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer 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.
Carefully evaluating 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 high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.