How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair provider ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all manner of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise using the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Choose a company that has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage plans for liability and workers' compensation. 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 or county government to find out if there are any additional local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, or preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair professionals, you should ask specific questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects 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 unneeded work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies typically provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.