What Should I Look to Hire a Fire Restoration Company?

How To Choose a Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Company?

Now that you understand what the fire restoration process entails and why hiring a professional is so important, it’s time to make your decision. Here are eight questions to ask as you search for a reputable company to repair the fire damage.

• Can you help me right away?  

Fires and other disasters demand an immediate response. The faster your building is assessed and boarded up, the better. Look for a company that responds to calls 24/7 so you aren’t left waiting longer than necessary.

• What are your credentials? 

Specific certifications and training are required for cleaning hazardous environments. That’s why you should only hire a restoration contractor that hires technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Insurance coverage is another credential to check for. This ensures you won’t be held liable if any accidents or injuries occur on your property during the restoration project.

• How much experience do you have? 

First, find out how long the service provider has been in business. This tells you the level of experience the company has. Then, ask for specific examples of past restorations that resemble your situation to ensure the contractor is up to the task.

• What is your fire damage restoration process? 

The representative you speak to should be able to explain the process in detail and answer your questions along the way. The steps they describe should be thorough and complete and include references to modern restoration equipment. Then, make sure any services you specifically want, such as contents pack-out and storage, are included.

• Can I see some references? 

Consider asking for the contact information of previous customers. When you call, ask about their experience with the company, how long the restoration took, what it cost, and anything else you’re curious about. This is the best way to receive candid answers to the topics that concern you the most.

• Will you help the insurance claims process? 

Insurers often partner with national and local restoration companies. To ensure the best experience, ask up front if the restoration company works with your insurance provider. Even if they aren’t specifically partners, you can ask for help filing your claim so you don’t have to deal with that headache on top of recovering from a building fire.

• Are you local to my area? 

While national providers can certainly restore fire and smoke damage, a local restoration company knows how to deal with issues affecting the region. Plus, you’re more likely to get a speedy response if you work with a company based close to your business location.

• How much do your services cost?

Insurance should cover most of the recovery cost, depending on the fire’s cause and your specific policy. Still, seeking estimates from multiple companies can save you money, especially if you must meet a deductible or the cost is likely to exceed your coverage limit. Remember, receiving quality service is more important than getting the lowest price, so compare quotes while keeping in mind the answers you receive to the other questions outlined here.