How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair provider with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Only certain construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: electricians, refrigeration installers, HVAC contractors, plumbers, and hydronic technicians. However, all Ohio businesses are required to possess an active state business license. You should also check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn whether there are any local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, 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 expenses.
- What foundation flaws 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.