There are some obvious basic things you should look for in anyone doing work in and around your home – like their reputation around town, the professionalism of their crew, and the quality of their other handiwork. Haven’t we all heard contractor horror stories? There are entire TV shows surrounding shoddy workmanship, and about contractors who take a property owner’s money never to be seen again.
At Southeast Restoration, we are wholeheartedly committed to serving the North Metro Atlanta area. We are here to help put homes, businesses, and lives back together! We’ve been named one of the fastest growing companies in America by Inc., partly because we pride ourselves on serving our customers, and hoping they’re glad to have met us, despite the circumstances like a fire or a flood. We don’t take our jobs lightly … and also expect you want to do your due diligence before letting a restoration company into your home. So, here are some things to look for when evaluating your options.
Recommendations/Word of Mouth
Word of mouth is often the best marketing technique for good water restoration companies! We aim to go above and beyond the expectations of our customers, so they will tell others about us. So ask around to your family and friends for possible recommendations. Also, take a look at a company’s website for testimonials. Companies with great testimonials will definitely share them on their website and social media pages.
Carefully Evaluate the Estimates
Get written estimates from all the contractors you are considering. Compare apples to apples – but remember to also consider the quality and reputation of the contractors you are interviewing. While you may be tempted to accept the lowest bid, that may not be the best option. After all, you get what you pay for, right? Also, be wary of companies that low-ball you at the door, and then try to up-sell you on services later. You want a clear quote and numbers right off the bat. No guesswork. Sometimes, paying a little more for a service will guarantee higher workmanship, and it is wise to find elsewhere to cut costs.
The Business Details
This is almost a no-brainer that just about any service provider coming to your home should have the right insurance policies in place. Technicians should be insured not only for safety reasons but also for liability in case an accident happens in your home! Plus, if any subcontractors are being hired to do work in your home, they also need to have the right credentials for their area of expertise, and insurance.
Check licenses and BBB complaints. You can go to the Better Business Bureau’s website and easily find if any contractors have had unresolved customer complaints. Likewise, take a gander at their social media pages – what are current and former customers saying? However, keep in mind someone just having a bad day might decide to go off on a contractor without good reason – and there are two sides to every story. If there is a contractor you like, but see a concerning comment or review somewhere, just ask them about it
Trust Your Gut
This is our #1 piece of advice to you! Trust your gut! If something doesn’t feel right with a certain contractor, move on. On the same note, if you have a great rapport with a company right off the bat and are pretty sure that’s the water damage company you want doing the work, don’t hesitate to get the ball rolling toward a finished project.