How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We suggest choosing a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various kinds of foundation problems. These companies should have deep knowledge of the latest techniques and materials. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints describing faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire companies that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. In Washington, there are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors, but all must register with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. To register, contractors must be bonded and insured. You can check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are any additional local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company 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 type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider 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.
- 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 a vague answer, it may be trying to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected expenses.
- How long will the repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.