How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers quality work 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 valid credentials, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. General contractors in South Carolina who work on residential homes may 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 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. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- 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 attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
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 delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.