5 Tips for Finding the Right Water Damage Restoration Company
If you are worried about the recent rise in water levels and the increasing chance of a flood, then this is probably a good time to start researching water damage restoration contractors. With the recent news of parts of the northern US being affected by flash floods, it is never a bad idea to be prepared.
You want to be able to act immediately if your home gets hit by floods or rising water levels. Any time wasted searching or waiting for the contractor to get to your home could result in a more expensive restoration process. However, it is also important to work with a contractor that understands the work that needs to be done, and not one that might cause more damage to your home.
Here are five tips that should guide you as you research for the right water damage restoration contractor. As they ensure you strike the right balance between your budget and expertise.
#1. Are they Industry Certified?
First of all, you want someone who has been certified by the appropriate regulatory body on water damage restoration. Bodies such as Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICR) and the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) are an example of certificates you should lookout for.
The appropriate certificate is an indication that the contractor has been trained and passed an exam on how to restore your home after water damage without causing more damage to the structure of the house.
#2. 24/7 Availability
Are they available whenever you need them? Water damage can strike at any time, and you want a contractor that is agile enough to respond, no matter the time of day. While this can be a tall order – you don’t want to spend hours waiting for your contractor to show up at your home.
The longer the wait, the more damage the water inflicts on your home. Which immediately increases the cost of repair and restoration.
#3. Location
If you are looking for water damage repair services in Chicago, and you go hire a contractor that is based out of Delaware, your house will probably be completely damaged by the time the team gets to you. With water damage restoration, proximity of the contractor is extremely important. Always hire a local contractor with the right expertise – going local doesn’t mean you have to lower your expectations or standards.
#4. The Right Equipment
The right equipment means they not only get the work done in record time, but your home isn’t damaged by their repair work. A good water damage restoration company always invests in the right and modern equipment. Time is of the essence and you want a team that can get cracking immediately.
Equipment is also one major reason you shouldn’t try to restore a water damaged home by yourself. Only in rare situations do you have the right equipment and the expertise to handle them.
#5. Experience
Years of experience in this field of work is a critical factor when deciding on a contractor. An experienced company not only have the right equipment, but can also support you if you need to file and expedite claims with your insurance company after they are done with the cleanup. Using an experienced firm also reduces the risk of mildew and mold growth – which can cause serious health issues for your loved ones.
The nature of water damage restoration also means that a company with years of experience has also built up trust and social capital due to the quality of their work. A company famed for shoddy water damage restoration work can’t last long in the industry. Word quickly goes around.
Final Thoughts
By now, it should be easy for you to spot the fakes when looking out for a water damage restoration contractor. Speed is also of essence when looking out for one. These five tips can act as a quick checklist to whittle down your list quickly.
