How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with extensive experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. The state of Texas does not issue state-level general contractor licenses, although all contractors are required to hold a valid state business license. Your city, county, or municipal government may have local licensing requirements, so be sure to verify this information prior to signing a contract. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What foundation flaws did you identify 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.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.