How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. New York does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, but there may be regulations at the city or county level, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years 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.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation defects 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 unneeded work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
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 delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.