How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider 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
Choose a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all types 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 checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. There are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: HVAC contractors, electricians, plumbers, hydronic technicians, and refrigeration installers. However, all businesses in Ohio need to hold an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn whether there are any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you find 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 extra work.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.