How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Hiring a qualified foundation repair business ensures you have someone who will inspect the damage thoroughly and make appropriate fixes. It's important to conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Pick a local foundation repair provider with significant experience fixing all kinds of foundation problems. It should have expertise in the latest repair methods and materials. Ask how long a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that a provider consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the right licenses, bonding, and coverage 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. Registration requires contractors to be bonded and insured. Make sure to check with your city, county, or municipal government to find out if there are any additional local requirements. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering transferable coverage for 10+ years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When examining potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask in-depth questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What are some likely causes of the problem based on your inspection? Look for clear explanations and solutions in the answer. Companies that provide unclear answers may be trying to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repair method would you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting quotes in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
Thoroughly evaluating foundation repair companies will help you select the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.