How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have extensive experience with 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 confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies for liability and workers' compensation. In all of Tennessee, contractors require a Prime (General) Contractor license from the Department of Commerce & Insurance for projects worth more than $25,000. In Bradley, Davidson, Haywood, Rutherford, Marion, Knox, Shelby, Robertson, and Hamilton counties, contractors must also have a Home Improvement license for home improvement projects worth between $3,000 and $25,000. While the former requires an exam, the latter does not. Both license types require proof of insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide 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.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What type of warranties are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems swiftly lowers the risk of future structural damage.