How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company 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 deep experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints describing faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the proper licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In Rhode Island, general contractors do not have state-level licensing requirements, but all contractors are required to register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and need to provide proof of insurance to do so. Home inspectors are required to obtain additional licensing, and your city or county may have additional local requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to 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
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What foundation defects 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 trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider 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 have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.
