How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with extensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have specialized knowledge of the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Reading through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and a great customer experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the appropriate licenses, bonds, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. Your foundation repair professional will 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 class, show 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
Pick a company that offers transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. 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 financing options do you have? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What do you see as the likely cause of my issues based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide vague answers may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies usually provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you identify the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.
