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 expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, only a few construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level: hydronic technicians, refrigeration installers, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors. However, all businesses in Ohio are required to possess an active state business license. You can also check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly lowers the risk of future structural damage.
