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 do your research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
We suggest looking for a local foundation repair provider with a long history of fixing various foundation issues. These companies should have expertise in the latest materials and techniques. Ask providers how long they've served your area.
Reputation
Carefully reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and asking for local references helps verify that a company consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and good customer service. Pay attention to any complaints about shoddy repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. The West Virginia Department of Labor issues contractor licenses throughout the state. To obtain a license, a contractor must pass a law and business on top of an exam for their area of specialty, must demonstrate proof of workers' compensation insurance, and must be bonded. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation flaws 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 unneeded work.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
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 offers long-lasting, durable repairs. Promptly fixing foundation problems helps avoid further structural damage.