How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair company ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and insurance policies 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 obtain a license, a contractor needs to take a pre-licensing course, provide 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 transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its services. 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 exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners locate the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs long-lasting, quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems right away lowers the risk of future structural damage.
