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
Find a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, only a few construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level: hydronic technicians, electricians, HVAC contractors, refrigeration installers, and plumbers. However, all businesses in Ohio are required to hold an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn whether there are local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade 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 detailed questions such as:
- What foundation defects 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 trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
