How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair company with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, 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 municipality might have local licensing requirements, so be sure to verify this information before signing a contract. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
As part of your research into foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- 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.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely completes durable, long-lasting repairs. Repairing foundation problems right away reduces the risk of future structural damage.