How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify 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 professional you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Only certain construction trades are required to be licensed at the state level in Ohio: electricians, hydronic technicians, HVAC contractors, plumbers, and refrigeration installers. However, all businesses in Ohio 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 any local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What type of warranties are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What foundation defects did you find 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 attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.