How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding 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 good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies 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 be sure to 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company 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 foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- 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 unneeded work.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
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 provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.
