How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and insurance 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 confirm that a company holds a valid New York business license on this website. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners select 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 prevent further structural damage.
