Things to Consider When Hiring a Fire Restoration Damage Cleanup Service Provider
You will need to hire the services of a fire restoration damage cleanup company if you’re dealing with fire or water damage. Handling fire and water damage on your own can be nerve wracking.
You can read all DIY articles and watch detailed videos but it will never be enough. This is because you need skills and expertise to manage fire damage, prevent mold growth or further damage, and restore your property. However, choosing a fire restoration damage cleanup company is also not an easy task. Hence, we’ll explain what to look for when finding a restoration company.
Let’s start:
Make Sure They Offer the Services You Need
This is the most important thing because not all restoration companies are made equal and not all may offer the services that you’re interested in. For example, some fire damage restoration companies only manage fire damage and do not cater to water damage, whereas some may handle water and fire but not smoke. Hence, you should be fully aware of what you’re looking for before you start searching for a company.
If you’re looking for cleanup services then you should ideally find a company that doesn’t only take care of debris but also removes mold and smoke, cleans walls and ceilings, and sucks out every drop of water to make your property livable and safe again.
Check Licenses and Certificates
It is important that you only work with a company that’s licensed to offer fire restoration damage cleanup services. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification) is one of the most popular organizations looking after damage cleanup companies. This certificate indicates the company is reliable. Also, don’t shy away from asking for the license number and the accreditations a company has.
At Get Del Mar, for example, we proudly display our license number (roofing: #038809). Furthermore, we’re available to answer any questions you may have about our licenses or certificates. Moreover, we have been in the business for years and have worked with all kinds of clients including residential and commercial clients.
Don’t Neglect the Affordability Factor
This is important because you can’t afford to spend lavishly, especially when you are already dealing with an emergency. In most cases, insurance will cover it for you but it’s still important that you choose an affordable company.
Since fire damage is an emergency, most people don’t have the time to discuss numbers. Conversely, you should contact the company and ask them to cater to the emergency right away and then discuss costs once the dust has settled. Your insurance company, even if it’s covering the expenses, will not make any advance payments and you will have to keep receipts to ensure you get reimbursed so make sure to discuss this factor with the company.
Ideally, look for a cleanup company that can deal with the insurance provider on your behalf so that you have nothing to worry about.
Ask for Availability
Fire damage cleanup companies can be busy and may not always be able to get to it right away. However, since most emergencies and accidents are unforeseeable, you cannot afford to work with a company that isn’t available. Therefore, ensure the company you select is always handy even during busy seasons. Gel Del Mar offers round the clock services and is available 24/7. Get in touch with us today to know more.
Do They Have the Tools and Manpower Needed for the Job?
Lastly, work with a company that has the tools and manpower needed to do the job. A fire restoration damage cleanup job can be very difficult as it may include moving heavy debris and furniture. Thus, it may not be possible without large cranes and multiple laborers. A company that doesn’t have these will either take too long to do the job or not be able to do it at all.
The job may even involve property board up, demolition, and reconstruction. As a result, a company that doesn’t have expertise in these will end up being a disappointment and you will eventually have to look elsewhere for help.
A fire restoration damage cleanup doesn’t only involve cleaning up but also restoring the property back to its pre-fire condition. The process can take weeks based on the nature of damage and the size of your property. Major repairs and replacements may also be needed. Your selected fire damage restoration services provider will discuss the timeline with you and create a plan according to your requirements.
You may also have to spend a few days at the hotel while the company is at work. Fires shouldn’t be taken lightly as they account for over $25.5 billion in direct property damage costs. If you’re a victim then waste no time and contact a fire restoration damage cleanup company to get to work. Remember that contacting your local fire department and cleanup agency should be a priority.