How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We recommend 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 how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Researching online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps you verify that a company consistently delivers quality work and a positive customer service experience. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. Your foundation repair professional will most likely be licensed as a specialty contractor by the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. To become licensed, a contractor is required to take a pre-licensing class, 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
Look for a company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its repair work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that delivers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.