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 conduct research beforehand, focusing on the factors listed here.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with a proven history of successfully fixing foundations. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair materials and methods. Contact the company to ask how long it’s served your community.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps verify that a company regularly provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any professional you hire has the right credentials, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Wisconsin, your contractor will likely hold a Dwelling Contractor license from the Department of Safety and Professional Services. To receive a license, a contractor must show proof of either a bond or general liability insurance and, if applicable, must have workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Pick a company that offers long transferable warranties for a minimum of 10 years and, if possible, lifetime guarantees to fully back its work. This displays faith that their repairs will be high-quality and long-lasting and provides protection if problems come up later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
While researching options for foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- What repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to shield yourself from unexpected costs.
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- What foundation flaws did you identify during inspection that may be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers a vague answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unnecessary work.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Thoroughly reviewing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the best fit for their needs. A company that can answer the above questions likely performs long-lasting, quality repairs. Repairing foundation problems quickly reduces the risk of future structural damage.
