How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a company consistently delivers good workmanship and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional 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, plumbers, refrigeration installers, HVAC contractors, and electricians. However, all businesses in Ohio are required to have an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipality to learn whether there are any local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.