How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before starting your foundation repair project, so you can find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors to consider.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with many years of successfully fixing a wide range of foundation problems. Technicians should have expert-level understanding of current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and great customer service. Take note of any complaints mentioning faulty repairs or poor service.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a company that has valid credentials, bonding, and coverage 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 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 company that provides transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates faith that its services are top-quality and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What options do you have for financing? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What warranties do you provide? Reputable providers usually provide labor and materials warranties of at least 10 years.
- 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 an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- Can you provide a cost estimate and project scope in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What exact repair method do you recommend for my specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, wall anchors, and steel piers. 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 companies that provide reasonable estimates.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely offer high-quality, durable repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.