How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the right credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Ohio, there are only a few construction trades required to be licensed at the state level: refrigeration installers, electricians, HVAC contractors, hydronic technicians, and plumbers. However, all Ohio businesses are required 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 requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What foundation flaws 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 unneeded work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.