How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with deep experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long 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 provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in South Carolina who work on residential homes can be licensed by the Contractor's Licensing Board (if they also do commercial work) or the Residential Builders Commission (if they only do residential work). General contractors need to have two years of work experience, while residential builders must have at least a year. Both need to pass an exam and be bonded. Certain small projects might be exempt from licensing requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation flaws 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reputable providers generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.