How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. There are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: hydronic technicians, refrigeration installers, plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors. However, all Ohio businesses are required 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 work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues 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.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.