How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Pennsylvania does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors; however, home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General's Office. Make sure you check with your city, county, or municipal 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
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.