How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company consistently provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level licensing requirements for general contractors in Pennsylvania; however, home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General's Office. Make sure you check with your city, county, or municipal government to learn whether there are local licensing requirements for contractors. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully 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
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- 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 trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly decreases the risk of future structural damage.