How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently 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 professional you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, only a few construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level: electricians, plumbers, hydronic technicians, HVAC contractors, and refrigeration installers. However, all businesses in Ohio need to hold an active state business license. You can also check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn whether there are local requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation flaws 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 warranties do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify 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.