How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company 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 provider with many years of successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has valid licenses, bonds, and coverage plans 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 municipal government may have local licensing requirements, so be sure that you verify this information before signing a contract. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
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 provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.
