How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for properly evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides good workmanship and great customer service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. The state of Texas does not issue state-level general contractor licenses, although all contractors must hold a valid state business license. Your city, county, or municipality might have local licensing requirements, so be sure to verify this information prior to signing a contract. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
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 faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.