How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair contractor ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company routinely provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the appropriate 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 municipal government might have local licensing requirements, so make sure to verify this information before signing a contract. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a provider that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask precise questions such as:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.