How to Choose the Right Restoration Contractor

Most of the time, your insurance company will suggest a restoration contractor that follows their protocols. This suggested company might even be on a “Preferred Vendor List.” A lot of people immediately choose the suggested company without thinking. However, this choice isn’t always in their best interest. Your insurance company may have cut a deal with certain vendors, whether or not those vendors are actually the right ones for the job. 

You should know that you do have the option of seeking out and choosing your own restoration specialist. You are not at all obligated to choose the restoration company that your insurance agent suggests. Choosing your own restoration company isn’t always easy, but this checklist will help you with that process.

Step One

Find a restoration company that specializes in fire, flood and natural disasters. This type of contractor has certified and specially-trained technicians with expert equipment. You’ll want to make sure, first and foremost, that your restoration team is equipped to handle the job. 

Step Two

Confirm the company is licensed & certified. You want to hire a restoration contractor that is licensed, bonded and insured in your state. Make sure they are also certified to use the proper equipment.

Step Three

Ask for references. If you’re considering a company, contact them and ask if they have references that they’re willing to share. Once you have those references, don’t stop there. Some people get references but never call those references. They assume that the company must be a good one if a representative was willing to give references at all. Don’t make that mistake. When it comes to your home or property, you don’t want to leave things up to chance. Take the time to call the company’s references and make sure the company is competent. Ask the references specific questions about the company’s work ethic, timeliness, and willingness to answer questions.

Step Four

Never hire a company that requires a large deposit to begin work. Some companies take advantage of disaster victims, and these aren’t the kinds of companies that you want working on your property. After doing some research, if you discover your contractor is overcharging for their deposit, look elsewhere for your restoration company. Keeping that in mind, it is not unusual for a contractor to request a deposit equal to the amount of the deductible to begin work.  As a matter of fact, a “no money down” offer should be counted as a warning sign. Often, these “no money down” companies are illegitimate companies who are taking advantage of their clients.