How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business 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 comprehensive experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served 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 describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right licenses, bonding, 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, refrigeration installers, plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors. However, all Ohio businesses are required to possess an active state business license. You can also check with your city, county, or municipality to learn whether there are any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this 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.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
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 high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.