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 you should consider.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right 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 classified 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What foundation flaws 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for this 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.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly decreases the risk of future structural damage.