How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before beginning your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all manner of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the appropriate credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level contractor licensing requirements in Texas, 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. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection in case of future issues.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs do you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer 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.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 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 trying to bill you for unneeded work.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.