How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair expert 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 is required to take a pre-licensing class, show 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
Choose a company that offers transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- 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 a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for extra work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers typically provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for this situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking the time to vet foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Fixing foundation problems right away decreases the risk of future structural damage.
