When you’re standing in a flooded room, the last thing you want is the added stress of finding a trustworthy company to handle the cleanup. But in a crisis, it can be tempting to just call the first name that pops up in a search.
Choosing the right water damage restoration company is the most important decision you’ll make in the recovery process. A reliable, professional team will not only restore your property correctly but also reduce your stress by guiding you through the entire process. Here’s what to look for to ensure you hire a company you can trust.
1. 24/7 Emergency Response
Water damage doesn’t wait for business hours. Water and moisture continue to cause damage every minute they are left unaddressed, and mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours. A top-tier restoration company must offer a true 24/7/365 emergency response.
- What to ask: “How quickly can you have a team at my property?” A reliable company should be able to dispatch a crew within an hour or two.
2. Proper Licensing and IICRC Certification
The restoration industry isn’t regulated in the same way as plumbing or electrical work, which makes certification incredibly important. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the global standard-setter for the industry.
- What to look for: A company that is an IICRC-Certified Firm. This means the company invests in ongoing education and adheres to the highest standards of care. Their technicians should also be individually certified in areas like Water Damage Restoration (WRT) and Applied Microbial Remediation (AMRT).
3. Comprehensive Insurance and Documentation
The company you hire will be working in your home and with your belongings. They must be fully insured.
- What to ask for: Proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from liability in case of an accident on your property. A professional company will provide this without hesitation.
4. Experience with Insurance Claims
A great restoration company acts as your advocate. They understand the complex process of filing an insurance claim and can help make it smoother and faster.
- What to look for: A company that will work directly with your insurance adjuster. They should use industry-standard pricing software (like Xactimate) and provide detailed documentation, including photos, moisture readings, and a clear scope of work to justify the claim.
5. Local Presence and Positive Reviews
Choose a company with a physical office and a strong reputation in your community. A local company is more accountable and can respond faster.
- What to look for: Check their reviews on Google, Yelp, and other third-party sites. Look for consistent themes of professionalism, clear communication, and high-quality work. Beware of companies with no local address or a sudden flood of generic-sounding five-star reviews.
6. A Professional and Empathetic Team
From the person who answers the phone to the technicians on-site, the team should be professional, courteous, and understanding. You are going through a stressful event, and you deserve to be treated with respect and empathy.
At Upper Restoration, we are proud to meet and exceed all these criteria. We are an IICRC-Certified Firm, offer a rapid 24/7 response, and have years of experience helping homeowners navigate the insurance process. When disaster strikes, trust us to restore not only your property but also your peace of mind.
