How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company 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 the business has served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company routinely provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Texas does not have state-level licensing requirements for general contractors, although all contractors are required to hold a valid state business license. Your city, county, or municipal government might 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
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to 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.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
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 delivers long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.