How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Research thoroughly before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair provider. Here are the main factors we recommend considering.
Experience
Look for a reputable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps confirm that a company consistently delivers high-quality work and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair contractor will likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To obtain a license, a contractor must take a pre-licensing class, demonstrate proof of liability insurance, and, if necessary, provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 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:
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as wall anchors, steel piers, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you provide? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that delivers high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.