How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with extensive experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. There are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: electricians, hydronic technicians, plumbers, refrigeration installers, and HVAC contractors. However, all businesses in Ohio must have an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipality to find out if there are any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.