How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the provider consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. There are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: electricians, plumbers, HVAC contractors, refrigeration installers, and hydronic technicians. However, all Ohio businesses need to hold an active state business license. You can also check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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 work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What foundation defects did you identify 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 unneeded work.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.