Storms can leave behind a lot of damage, whether it be fallen trees, damaged windows or in most cases water damage. Flooded homes and burst pipes can lead to serious damage. This is where hiring a respected water damage restoration should be a top priority. Unfortunately, the restoration industry is not regulated and you can run into trouble when hiring a company as they may overstate their qualifications for the job. If you hire the wrong company or individual you may end up doing more damage than good which could cost you an additional amount of money than you were expecting. When you are reviewing a company to hire for the job, keep in mind these couple of points to make sure you hire the right person for the job:
1. Even though the industry is not regulated, those who take their job seriously have taken the steps to receive the best training possible and get certified. Certification through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification is a sign that your technician is qualified, knowledgeable, and respected through the restoration industry. The IICRC has a Certified Firm registrant-only database on their site that makes it easy to find a local, certified professional who can complete the job and doing a good job.
2. Do not hire a company solely off of the price or an insurance company’s recommendation. Often, insurance companies will recommend a company solely off of whoever is offering the lowest price which suggests they doing not use the most up to date or modern drying or water damage repair methods. Ask your neighbors or friends for recommendations as they will often give you an unbiased thought on companies.
3. Look at if a company offers a range of water damages restoration services. If a company has expertise in the field they will offer a variety of options for homeowners. For example, mold remediation is often needed because of how quickly mod can settle in. This is a pretty standard knowledge set that advanced technicians should possess and if a company does not offer this service they may not be best suited for the job.
4. If a company is available 24/7 that is often a good sign. Every second when it comes to water damage counts and the quicker you can get started, the better. If a company is reluctant to get started right away or makes the homeowner wait that is not a good sign. That company can probably not be trusted to finish the job in a realistic time frame.
Misty Jhones