How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors takes care of licensing in the state. Your foundation contractor will most likely be licensed as a Specialty Contractor by the board. To obtain a license, a contractor must pass an exam. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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 unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.