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 important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has valid licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Pennsylvania does not require general contractors to hold state-level licensure; however, home improvement contractors need to register with the Attorney General's Office. Make sure you check with your county or city government to learn whether there are local licensing requirements for contractors. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs 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 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
