How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. 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 confirm that a company routinely provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, only a few construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level: electricians, hydronic technicians, HVAC contractors, refrigeration installers, and plumbers. However, all Ohio businesses must have an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
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? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? 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 carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
