Water damage can affect home and business owners at any moment causing thousands of dollars in damage. Burst pipes, backed up pipes or natural disasters like floods and hurricanes can cause water damage. When water damage does occur it’s important to find a reliable, credible and knowledgeable company to help fix the situation. If you are ever in need of water damage restoration services, here are five things to keep in mind when starting your search.
Company Availability
When your home is water damaged, time is the most critical aspect of cleaning up. The longer the water sits the higher chance it will form mold and rot. Finding out a company’s availability is a great first step in getting your home repaired in a timely manner. Ask how they respond to city wide water damage like a flood or hurricane. Do they offer services 24/7? Asking questions about their availability ensures the damage to your home is minimized and taken care of efficiently.
Check their Certifications and Licenses
Referencing the certifications and licenses the water damage and restoration company has is important to make sure you are dealing with professionals. Ask about what specialty training they have received, state licenses and how long they’ve been operating. The companies worth your time will have a team of licensed professionals that know how to safely and properly handle water damage repairs.
Previous Client Work
A company’s previous work portfolio can say a lot about how they handle business. Ask how long it usually takes to complete home restoration after water damage. Read reviews online or talk with previous clients about their experience. Getting a third party’s opinion is often the most accurate depiction of how the company treats their customers. If you’re not hearing good things, it’s a sign to keep looking.
Ask About Insurance
Insurance is an essential item that all good water restoration companies should possess. This protects not only their liabilities but yours as well if something were to go wrong on the job site. Bare minimum insurance coverage should include worker’s compensation and liability insurance. Ask to see the company’s insurance documents and make sure they are not outdated. See if they have a history of previous accidents and ask how they handled those situations. The right team will have safety procedures and water damage protocol that take the necessary steps to protect their team and assets.
Another aspect of insurance is your own personal insurance claim for the damage. Talk to the company and see if they offer any assistance navigating insurance claims. Having a professional talk you through the ins and outs can be a major stress relief.
Learn Their Water Damage Process
Lastly, learn the company’s water damage remediation process. Ask for a written estimate that details exactly what services they will be providing. How long will it take for them to get started? How long will they be working once they arrive? This answer usually depends on if extensive water damage has occurred but it gives you a timeline of when they should be completed. Learn what kind of tools and equipment they will be using in your home.
Choosing a water cleanup restoration company can seem challenging but doing thorough research will pay off in the long run. It’s important to find a team that is professional, credible and considerate when it comes to protecting your interests and home.
