How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company routinely provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Contractor licensing in Oregon is handled by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. To obtain a license, contractors must pass an exam, and must be bonded and insured. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs do you recommend for my 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.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.