How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with deep experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the proper 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 need to register with the Attorney General's Office. Make sure you check with your county or city government to find out if there are local licensing requirements for contractors. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.