How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have up-to-date knowledge of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and coverage 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 might have local licensing requirements, so be sure that you verify this information prior to signing a contract. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of warranties do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation flaws did you find during inspection that could 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 unnecessary work.
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
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 long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.