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 important factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest materials and techniques. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair professional will most likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To become licensed, a contractor needs to take a pre-licensing course, show proof of liability insurance, and, if necessary, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- 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.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
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 offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.