Not all restoration companies are created equal. In the aftermath of a fire or flood, you’ll need more than just cleanup—you’ll need expert guidance, technical skills, and fast action to minimize the damage and restore your property. Whether you’re dealing with water-soaked walls, smoke-damaged ceilings, or mold starting to creep in, hiring the right fire and water restoration company can make all the difference.
The challenge? With so many companies offering similar services, it can be hard to know who to trust. To help you make an informed decision, here are the top five things to look for when hiring a restoration company to handle fire and water damage.
Licensing, Certification, and Insurance: Always Check the Credentials
Restoration work is a specialized field that goes far beyond cleaning. It involves knowledge of construction, mold remediation, hazardous material handling, and more. That’s why it’s essential to verify that the company is licensed, insured, and certified to perform fire and water restoration.
Look for the following certifications:
IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification): This is the industry standard and ensures the company follows proper procedures for safety and quality.
EPA Lead-Safe Certification: Required if your home was built before 1978 and may contain lead paint.
OSHA Compliance: This shows the company meets workplace safety standards.
Just as important, the company should carry liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. This protects you from being held responsible if an accident occurs on your property.
Rapid Emergency Response: Time Matters
In fire and water damage situations, time is critical. Water damage can lead to mold growth in as little as 24 hours. Smoke and soot residue can permanently stain and corrode surfaces if not addressed quickly.
That’s why you need a company that offers 24/7 emergency services and can arrive promptly. Ask how quickly they can respond to calls, and whether they have a dedicated team for emergencies. A fast response reduces the extent of damage, cuts down on repair costs, and speeds up your return to normal.
Experience with Both Fire and Water Restoration
Some companies focus more heavily on one area—either fire or water restoration—but the best ones are skilled in handling both. Fire damage often comes with water damage due to firefighting efforts, so a company experienced in both areas will be better equipped to manage the full scope of the restoration process.
Ask questions like:
How many years have you been in business?
Do you have experience handling properties similar to mine?
Can you share references or case studies from past clients?
An experienced company will know how to navigate complex restoration tasks, avoid common mistakes, and identify hidden issues (like smoke damage behind walls or moisture under flooring) before they become major problems.
Clear Estimates and Transparent Communication
In times of crisis, the last thing you want is to be left in the dark about what’s happening or how much it will cost. A trustworthy restoration company will explain their process, provide a detailed written estimate, and be clear about timelines, materials, and expectations.
They should be willing to:
– Walk you through the steps of the restoration process
– Answer all your questions without hesitation
– Coordinate directly with your insurance company if needed
– Update you regularly as work progresses
Avoid companies that give vague information or pressure you to sign before offering clear documentation. Transparency is a sign of professionalism—and peace of mind for you.
Strong Reputation and Reliable Reviews
You can learn a lot about a company by what past clients have to say. Before you hire, take the time to check reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, or the Better Business Bureau. Look for consistent patterns—positive or negative—in customer feedback.
Key things to watch for include:
– Punctuality and professionalism
– Quality of work
– Communication and customer service
– Willingness to resolve issues if problems arise
Also, consider hiring a local company with an established presence in your community. Local businesses are more likely to be familiar with area-specific issues like weather patterns, building codes, or water sources, and they often rely on their reputation to maintain customer trust.
Tip: One Company, Full Service
Dealing with multiple contractors can be a headache. Many of the top restoration companies offer full-service solutions—from emergency response and cleanup to repairs and reconstruction. Hiring one company to handle the entire process can simplify coordination, reduce miscommunication, and help you move back into your home or reopen your business more quickly.
Fire and water damage can feel overwhelming, but hiring the right restoration company shouldn’t. By focusing on companies with the proper credentials, fast emergency response, relevant experience, transparent processes, and a solid reputation, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to recover smoothly.
Keep in mind that the restoration company you choose will be handling one of your most valuable investments—your home or business. Don’t settle for the first name that pops up in a search. Take the time to ask questions, read reviews, and find a team that treats your property with the care it deserves.
Preparation is key. Even if you’re not currently dealing with a disaster, having a trusted restoration company’s contact info on hand could save you time, money, and stress down the road.