Once you've decided your foundation needs work, the next decision — who does the work — matters just as much as the repair itself. Here's what's worth checking before you hire anyone.
1. Confirm the license. Florida requires foundation repair contractors to hold a state license. Ask for the license number and verify it rather than taking it on faith.
2. Confirm insurance, not just licensing. A licensed contractor without adequate liability and workers' compensation coverage can leave you exposed if something goes wrong on your property during the work.
3. Get a real evaluation, not a guess over the phone. A contractor should look at soil conditions, floor levels, wall alignment, and your crawl space or slab in person before recommending a fix.
4. Ask whether the fix is permanent or temporary. Helical piers are a permanent, deep-foundation solution. Mudjacking or foam injection can level a slab quickly and affordably, but it's worth knowing which category your recommended fix falls into and why.
5. Get the estimate in writing, and read what's included. A fair estimate spells out the method, the scope, and the price — not just a total.
6. Ask about warranty coverage. Foundation work is meant to last decades; a company confident in its work should be willing to stand behind it.
7. Document existing damage before work starts. Photos of cracks, gaps, and problem areas protect you and give the crew a clear baseline to work from.
8. Ask how weather affects the timeline. Florida's rainy season and hurricane season can slow excavation and pier installation — a straightforward contractor will tell you that upfront rather than after the fact.
9. Don't wait on small cracks to get multiple opinions. Comparing quotes from more than one licensed, insured company is normal and reasonable — a company confident in its pricing won't discourage it.
10. Be selective. Cracks, sagging floors, and leaning basement walls aren't something to hand to the lowest bidder without checking the first nine items on this list.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a Florida foundation repair contractor is licensed?
Ask for the contractor's license number directly and verify it through the state licensing board before signing anything.
Is a free evaluation normal in this industry?
Yes — most reputable foundation repair companies, Solid Foundations included, offer a free, no-obligation evaluation before any estimate or work is proposed.