How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business 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 a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. The North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors handles licensing in the state. Your foundation contractor will most likely be licensed as a Specialty Contractor by the board. Before becoming licensed, contractors must pass an exam. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
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 long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.