How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Find a local foundation repair company with comprehensive experience fixing all foundation types. It should have expertise in the latest repair techniques and materials. Ask how long a company has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company consistently provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see many complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has valid credentials, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Washington, 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 learn about any additional local regulations. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers warranties of 10+ years that you can transfer to a new owner if you sell and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its foundation repair services. This displays confidence that the company's work is top-notch and provides protection should problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written project scope and cost estimate? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- 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 unclear answers may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- How long will repairs realistically take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
Carefully reviewing foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely deliver high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps avoid future structural damage.
