Flooding and water damage are quite unpredictable and can happen in a short period. Water damages can even happen due to bad weather conditions. These damages can harm the structure as well as the electrical, plumbing or more severely than one can imagine.
At such times it is essential to take steps quickly and wisely to avoid further damage to the property and life. A professional water damage company can help you to carry on your life normally once again.
But there are several companies around. Which one to choose?
Do not worry! Follow these steps before hiring a water damage company.
1) Check for availability of Emergency Response Team
Just imagine you are sleeping and suddenly there is a huge water leak in your house. You try calling the water restoration company and you realized they do not work as it Sunday. What will you do?
Calamities like flood or water damage can happen anytime and anywhere. Keep in mind to check the company’s working days and operating time before hiring them.
A good restoration company will operate 24 X 7 round the year. They will quickly respond to your request and will be at the sight as fast as possible to resolve the issue.
2) Check their credentials and license
Before hiring a company to do deal with your issues related to water damage check their licenses and credentials. It is always good to ask for proof to avoid future issues. A good restoration company will never be hesitant to show you proofs. A water restoration company will have the following credentials: –
- IICRC Certification: – It certifies that the company follows a standard set of procedures during the inspection, cleaning, and restoration which is industry-recognized.
- EPA Lead Sale Certification: – This EPA has made it mandatory for restoration companies, renovators, contractors, etc to follow lead-safe work practices in projects related to child-occupied facilities and housing.
- Bonding: – If the companies cause any additional damage to the customer during the restoration of water damages, then the customer can file a claim against the company and the claim will be paid from the bond purchased by the company.
3) Check if the staff is trained, licensed, and insured
No matter how much the workers try to work safely but there are always chances of getting injured while doing restoration work. All the workers must be insured.
The next thing to keep in mind is to check whether the individuals are trained and certified to carry out operations related to the restoration of water damages.
The better trained the team, the better the result will be. They will be able to resolve your issue quickly as well.
4) Look for a reference
It is always good to ask your friends, neighbours, family, and colleagues if they have hired or know any restoration company. This will increase the credibility of the company with which they have worked as they are aware of how the company operates and handles restoration projects.
At the same time, you should also ask the company that deals in water damage about their previous testimonials and clients they have worked with. A good company will always be happy to provide you with such information.
You can ask them how did they tackle their problem? What was their response time? What is the fee they charge and what all is included under it? What was their restoration methodology?
This will help in formulating a clear image of the company and will help in making a wise decision.
5) Always have an on-site damage assessment test
Never higher a company after listening to their quotation over call. They may look good during the call but may not have the required expertise in dealing with water damage.
Always recommend conducting an onsite assessment test to analyse the damage and understanding its scope and its possible resolutions. This way you will be able to assess the company and the people who are employed there.
Last few words!!
There are times when freshwater can mix with sewage water due to water damage. Long-standing water can be a threat to your health as it contains several microorganisms which can cause you several diseases. The foul smell can make you sick.
A professional water damage company can be of great help as they have expertise on how to tackle such an issue. They will not only properly clearly the site but also sanitize it and make it fit for your use again. Take your time to decide which company is best for you.
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