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Potential water damage is something most Aurora property owners list as a concern, as mountain snow melts and strong thunderstorms frequently cause nearby streams to overflow their banks.
While the city and county have drainage systems strategically placed, it’s not always enough to prevent properties from flooding. The result is often water damage, and it can be extensive—this is precisely when you need to contact water damage restoration Aurora, CO specialists.
Finding a water damage restoration company isn’t difficult, there are plenty to choose from. However, how do you know if you’re working with the right specialist?
Tips on Choosing a Water Damage Restoration Company
A water damage restoration service comes in to help clean up after flooding. Whether the water damage is caused by a natural or manmade disaster, their job is to return your property to pre-flooding condition, and this can mean replacing drywall and flooring and possibly even bringing in electricians and plumbers.
If your water damage causes electrical or plumbing issues, you know to check for insurance and certification—but what about the water damage restoration company? Colorado doesn’t require water damage restoration services to be licensed and this means you want to do your homework. So, what should you look for in a service contracted to repair your water damage?
Check for Insurance
Licenses may not be a state requirement but this doesn’t mean insurance is an option. Workers’ compensation insurance is a state requirement for most businesses including water damage restoration services. This is something you want to check for before hiring a company.
Along with workers’ compensation insurance, it’s a good idea to see if the company also carries an umbrella policy, which is additional insurance protecting workers if they’re injured on the job. Yes, your homeowner’s policy will cover most injuries that occur on your property. The primary downside is the expense; you should expect your premiums to increase.
There’s also the risk your insurance may not cover the accident. If this happens, you may be responsible for covering the injured worker’s damages out of your pocket. Don’t forget to make sure all company vehicles are also insured.
Inquire About Employee Background Checks
Before you allow strangers to come and go on your property, it’s a good idea to have a general idea of who they are. Most water damage restoration companies run background checks on their employees, but you still want to make sure. After all, you probably don’t want a convicted burglar freely roaming around your property.
Something else to consider is asking if employees are bonded. This is another type of insurance companies often carry on their staff. The insurance guarantees financial reimbursement for any losses you may sustain due to an employee’s fraudulent acts. For example, if an employee of the water damage restoration company steals an item from your home. The company will reimburse you for your loss.
Are Technicians Trained and Certified
Even though licensing isn’t a state requirement, you still want qualified technicians to repair your water damage. So, what type of training should water damage restoration specialists go through? Some examples include advanced structural drying, water damage, and advanced microbial remediation.
The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the standards for water damage restoration technicians. After completing classes, technicians are awarded a certificate indicating they have the training necessary to perform specific tasks. While not a state requirement, the certification can give you some peace of mind knowing you have experts working to restore your property.
Do You Provide Emergency Services
Yes, some water damage restoration services keep standard business hours. You know, working only during the week and open no later than 5 pm. These hours work great for some businesses, like your tax account.
When it comes to water damage, you probably want to go with a service that has more flexible hours. Water damage can happen on the weekend or in the middle of the night. The last thing you want to do is let the problem get worse while you wait for the water damage restoration service to open.
Look for a company that provides emergency services. You also want to work with one that keeps their technicians available throughout your restoration project. Continuous monitoring during the restoration process is common, and this means you want technicians to always be on hand.
Will the Restoration Company Work with Your Insurance
You may be fortunate enough to find a restoration service that has a working relationship with your insurance company. If so, congratulations; it’s one less thing for you to worry about. While you can handle the insurance claim by yourself, the process can be complicated.
Chances are, your insurance provider is going to have specific requirements they want the restoration service to meet. Failing to meet these requirements can result in the insurance company denying your claim.
When the water damage restoration service can work with your insurance company, the process tends to go more smoothly. Everyone’s on the same page and you don’t need to worry about surprises when it comes to your coverage.
Restoration Project Timeline
Every restoration project is different; sometimes, the water damage is minimal, while other projects may have extensive damage. The extent of the water damage is going to affect the timeline.
Don’t forget that surprises can also pop up along the way. What may initially seem like an easy repair may turn out to be more complicated than expected. With this being said, you still want to get an estimated project timeline.
If the project timeline seems a little extensive, don’t be afraid to get a second opinion. On average, drying out after flooding takes around 3 to 5 days. Demolition and cleanup also take about five days, then add in the restoration, and most projects take around two or three weeks.
Make Sure You’re Working with the Best Restoration Company
Dealing with water damage can be incredibly stressful, no matter what caused it. The process of cleaning up, drying out, and making repairs demands a lot of effort. To avoid adding to your stress, it’s crucial to choose a qualified water damage restoration company.
Make sure to do thorough research and ask plenty of questions before you commit to any service provider. This way, you can feel confident that the company you choose will handle the restoration efficiently and effectively.
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