How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company consistently provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. In South Carolina, general contractors who work on residential homes can be licensed by the Contractor's Licensing Board (if they also work on commercial jobs) or the Residential Builders Commission (if they do only residential work). General contractors must have two years of experience, while residential builders must have at least a year. Both are required to pass an exam and be bonded. Certain small projects can be exempt from licensing requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its 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
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask specific questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What do you see as the likely cause of the problem 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 unnecessary work.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners select the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.