How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Throughout Tennessee, contractors need a Prime (General) Contractor license from the Department of Commerce & Insurance for any project worth $25,000 or more. In Hamilton, Davidson, Knox, Bradley, Haywood, Marion, Shelby, Rutherford, and Robertson counties, contractors also need a Home Improvement license for home improvement projects valued between $3,000 and $25,000. The former requires an exam and the latter does not. Both licenses require proof of insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- What foundation flaws 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 this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.