How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans 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 by the board as a Specialty Contractor. Before becoming licensed, contractors must pass an exam. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up 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 repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.