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
Find a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Rhode Island does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, but all contractors are required to register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and must show proof of insurance to do so. Home inspectors are required to obtain additional licensing, and your local government may have additional regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What foundation defects did you identify 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.
- What warranties do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. 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 shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.
