How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair business is important for accurately evaluating the damage and completing repairs correctly. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with many years, ideally decades, of experience successfully completing all kinds of foundation repairs. These providers have specialized expertise with the latest methods and materials. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references helps confirm that a company routinely provides quality work and great customer service. Pay attention if you see numerous complaints about faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct licenses, bonding, and insurance for liability and workers' compensation. In Wisconsin, it's likely that you'll hire a Dwelling Contractor licensed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services. To obtain a license, contractors are required to show proof of either a bond or general liability insurance. If applicable, a contractor must also have workers' compensation insurance. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain concrete work.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers lengthy transferable warranties for a minimum of a decade, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair providers, you should ask detailed questions such as:
- What foundation defects did you find 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 unneeded work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Be sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.
- What type of guarantees are provided? Trustworthy providers typically offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Realistically, how long will repairs take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What repairs do you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may offer options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues reduces the risk of further structural damage.
