How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair company is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We recommend focusing on these key factors.
Experience
Choose a well-established local company with a long track record of experience successfully handling all kinds of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has been serving your area.
Reputation
Spend time reading through online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help confirm that the company consistently delivers good workmanship and professionalism. Take note of any complaints mentioning poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right credentials, bonds, 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 provide proof of either general liability insurance or a bond and, if applicable, must have workers' compensation insurance. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its foundation repairs. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues arise in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During your assessment of potential foundation repair companies, make sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What type of guarantees do you offer? Reputable companies will offer warranties of minimum 10 years on labor and materials.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- What exact 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. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take to complete? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects 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 an unclear answer, it may be trying to bill you for extra work.
- What options do you offer for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners discover the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that provides long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Swiftly addressing foundation issues helps prevent further structural damage.