How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Look for a local foundation repair company with significant 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
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. Texas does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, although all contractors must hold a valid state business license. Your city, county, or municipal government may have local licensing requirements, so be sure to verify this information before signing a contract. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective 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 detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
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, high-quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.