How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair contractor to properly assess issues and make appropriate repairs. Do thorough research and focus on these factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Find 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 company has served your area.
Reputation
Looking through online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has the correct licenses, bonding, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. Washington does not have state-level licensing requirements for contractors, but they must register with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Contractors must be bonded and insured in order to register. 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
Choose a company that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally up to lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates confidence in the quality of their work and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties for at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What foundation defects 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 extra work.
- How long will repairs realistically take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Taking the time to review foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, durable repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.