How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a provider consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Throughout Tennessee, contractors must have a Prime (General) Contractor license from the Department of Commerce & Insurance for projects worth over $25,000. In Davidson, Knox, Shelby, Rutherford, Robertson, Bradley, Haywood, Marion, and Hamilton counties, contractors also need to have a Home Improvement license for home improvement projects between $3,000 and $25,000. The former requires an exam and the latter does not. Both license types require proof of insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.
