How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully handling all manner of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, there are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level: electricians, refrigeration installers, hydronic technicians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors. 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 local requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
