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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with comprehensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in 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 many complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct credentials, bonding, and insurance 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. You should check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are local licensing requirements for contractors. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor 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 are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.