When your home is damaged, you're vulnerable. You're stressed, often confused, and someone is trying to get you to sign a contract quickly. Knowing how to evaluate a restoration company in those moments can save you thousands of dollars — and a lot of heartache.
1. Are They IICRC Certified?
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the gold standard for restoration professionals. Ask for their certification number. Any legitimate company will provide it immediately. We're IICRC certified — ask Ryan for our number when you call.
2. Do They Have a Florida Mold Remediator License?
If mold is involved (and it often is after water damage), Florida law requires a licensed remediator for any project over 10 square feet. Ask for their MRSR license number and verify it at MyFloridaLicense.com before any work begins.
3. Do They Handle the Full Insurance Claim?
Many companies do mitigation only and leave you to handle the insurance claim yourself. We write Xactimate estimates and communicate directly with your adjuster. Ask specifically: "Do you write your own Xactimate estimates?"
4. Do They Do Full Reconstruction?
Most restoration companies stop at mitigation — drying out the structure. Then you have to find a separate contractor for the rebuild. Network pros do both. Ask: "If I need drywall replaced and floors rebuilt, do you handle that or do I need to hire someone else?"
5. What's Their Response Time?
In water damage, every hour matters. We commit to 60 minutes or less. Ask for a specific commitment, not a vague "we'll get there as soon as possible."
6. Who Specifically Will Be on Your Job?
With franchise companies, you may get a different crew every day with no consistent point of contact. Ryan personally oversees every job we take on.
7. Can They Provide References?
Ask for recent references from homeowners in your area, and read a company's public Google reviews on Google Maps before you decide.
8. What Are Their License Numbers?
Any licensed contractor should immediately provide their license numbers when asked. If they hesitate or can't produce them, walk away. Verify any license at MyFloridaLicense.com before signing anything.
Ready to talk? Call at 321-420-7274.