How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with a long track record of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair professional will likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To obtain this license, a contractor must take a pre-licensing class, demonstrate proof of liability insurance, and, if applicable, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors 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 work. 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
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What foundation defects 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What warranties do you offer? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
Carefully evaluating foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.
