How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation provider with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
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 good workmanship and great customer service. Take note of any complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level contractor licensing requirements in Texas, although all contractors are required to hold a valid state business license. Your city, county, or municipal government may have local licensing requirements, so make sure to verify this information prior to signing a contract. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
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 confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As you evaluate potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- 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 trying to bill you for extra work.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield 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. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes long-lasting, quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.