How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these key factors when looking for the right company.
Experience
We suggest hiring a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a provider that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans 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 obtain this license, a contractor needs to take a pre-licensing course, show proof of liability insurance, and, if necessary, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
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 foundation repair services. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What warranties do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
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 provides durable, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.