How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these important factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that a company consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In South Carolina, general contractors who perform residential work 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 are required to have two years of experience, while residential builders must have at least a year. Both must pass an exam and be bonded. Certain small projects may be exempt from licensing requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- What foundation flaws did you find during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Taking the time to review 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. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.