How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints describing faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, only a few construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level: plumbers, electricians, hydronic technicians, refrigeration installers, and HVAC contractors. However, all Ohio businesses are required to possess an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipality to find out if there are local requirements. 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 services. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- 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 vague answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
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 high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.