How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for properly evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all types of foundations. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair technician will likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To receive this license, a contractor must 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
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits belief in the quality and durability of the repairs and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific 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 unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as wall anchors, carbon fiber, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
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 delivers durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.