Denial, shock, anger, anxiety, sadness, fear – a range of strong emotions surge through people as they survey ruined property following a disaster. They all share one particular need: to repair the damage now and return their lives to normal as fast as possible. But how to fix it and who will help? Disasters force critical and far-reaching decisions when we aren’t at our best. We’re so frantic to salvage belongings that we cling to the first offer of help.
Resist the impulse to act with haste. Take time to choose a qualified company. Highly skilled and experienced companies expertly manage a thorough restoration process. They care not only for your possessions, but for you and yours personally, minimizing your distress. Fly-by-night charlatans, on the other hand, target disaster victims with disheartening frequency. Reassuring and convincing, they nonetheless bilk victims of time and money while fixing little and disappearing quickly.
Thankfully, close questioning often exposes scam artists. Keep this list of questions handy in case of emergency. They lead you to the right company no matter your state of mind.
Is the company local? If you’re involved in a widespread disaster affecting a large area, beware scam artists who travel from afar to make a quick buck. Be careful if someone you haven’t contacted approaches you to offer services.
Does the company have good references? The best references are from people you know who have had similar work performed. Insurance companies often provide references as well. Be cautious relying on website reviews, which may not provide current, complete or accurate information. The best site to visit? The Better Business Bureau to vet specific companies.
Can the company provide good credentials? Ask to see the contractor’s licenses, technician certifications, proof of insurance and bonds. Ask if the company meets industry standards such as the ANSI/IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration and the ANSI/IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation.
Will the company provide estimates and restoration plans? Reputable firms give complete, written estimates with line item costs and detailed restoration plans that discuss timeframes, equipment, product use and personnel. Beware of any company providing estimates over the phone or after a cursory inspection of affected areas.
What are the payment terms? Beware of companies requiring large down payments or offering discounts for signing contracts on the spot. Large down payments are tip-offs for unreliable scam companies likely to disappear with the cash. Reputable companies, which estimate carefully and follow strict procedures, are unlikely to discount services.
Can I reach you anytime? Reliable companies are available 24/7/365 with telephone support at any time night or day. The best restoration contractors proactively communicate often, are compassionate and want you to understand the work they are performing.
Choose Paul Davis because, “This is No Time for Second Best®.”
Here’s another reason for choosing deliberately: an exceptional and highly skilled restoration company repairs more than property. For many victims, a well-managed recovery process spurs surprising feelings of gratitude and safety. The right company understands that these positive feelings heal and strives to build and nurture them.
“The situation is larger than what happened and how we will fix it,” concludes Steve Rotay, Regional Vice President for Paul Davis. “It’s about caring completely for that person, his or her life and loved ones and commitments and responsibilities.”
