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 reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing foundations. 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
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. Across the state of Tennessee, contractors require a Prime (General) Contractor license from the Department of Commerce & Insurance for projects worth over $25,000. In Robertson, Marion, Haywood, Rutherford, Knox, Shelby, Bradley, Hamilton, and Davidson counties, contractors also require a Home Improvement license for home improvement projects worth between $3,000 and $25,000. The former requires an exam, while the latter does not. Both types of license require proof of insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What type of warranties do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.