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
We recommend hiring a local foundation repair company with a well-established track record of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company routinely provides good workmanship and good service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Only hire providers that are properly licensed, bonded, and have both workers compensation and liability insurance. There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Washington, but they 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 learn about any additional local requirements. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its repair work. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected expenses.
- What guarantees do you offer? Reliable companies generally provide labor and materials warranties that last at least 10 years.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects did you find during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take to complete? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- 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.
Carefully assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners find the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs durable, high-quality repairs. Addressing foundation problems right away lowers the risk of future structural damage.