How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you confirm that the provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Contractors in North Dakota are licensed by the Secretary of State's office. To apply, contractors must demonstrate proof of liability insurance. Licenses can be Class A, B, C, or D, which reflect the size of the project a contractor is permitted to work on. Most residential foundation repair jobs can be done under any class of license. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away lowers the risk of future structural damage.