How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Conduct research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair provider with a proven reputation for fixing various foundation issues. 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 asking for local references helps verify that a company regularly provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see multiple complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both liability and workers compensation insurance. Your foundation repair contractor will most likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To receive this license, a contractor needs to take a pre-licensing course, demonstrate proof of liability insurance, and, if applicable, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects did you identify during inspection that could 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 unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly fixing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.