How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair company with a proven reputation for fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Only certain construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: refrigeration installers, hydronic technicians, electricians, HVAC contractors, and plumbers. However, all businesses in Ohio need to possess an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are local requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide 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 warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.
