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 looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. 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 confirm that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Pennsylvania does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors; however, home improvement contractors need to register with the Attorney General's Office. You should check with your county or city government to find out if there are local licensing requirements for contractors. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company 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 in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation flaws did you find 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 attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
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 offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.