Fire or water damage can cause severe disruption to your home or business. Beyond the visible damage to walls, floors, and possessions, there’s a hidden urgency—structural instability, mold growth, and toxic residue can set in quickly. While the initial shock of the disaster can leave you overwhelmed, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is selecting the right restoration company.
Not every company is equipped or qualified to properly handle fire and water restoration. Some may lack the experience, certifications, or equipment needed to do the job thoroughly and safely. Choosing the right professionals means restoring not just your property—but also your peace of mind.
Here are the top five things to look for when hiring a fire and water restoration company:
Proper Licensing, Insurance, and Industry Certifications
The very first thing you should check is whether the company is licensed to operate in your area. Licensing means they’ve met local or state requirements for running a restoration business. More importantly, the company should carry adequate liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. This protects you from financial responsibility in the event of an accident or property damage during the restoration process.
In addition to licensing and insurance, look for companies that hold certifications from reputable organizations like:
IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) – This is the most recognized credential in the industry. It ensures the company follows best practices for water removal, fire cleanup, and mold remediation.
EPA Lead-Safe Certification – Required if your home was built before 1978.
OSHA Compliance – Shows that the company follows safety standards for workers and property owners alike.
A company with proper credentials has been trained to handle fire and water damage thoroughly and safely.
24/7 Emergency Availability and Quick Response Time
Emergencies don’t happen on a schedule. Whether a pipe bursts in the middle of the night or a fire leaves your property soaked in water from firefighting efforts, you need a company that can respond immediately. Mold can begin growing within 24 hours, and smoke residue can permanently stain surfaces within hours if left untreated.
That’s why you should choose a company that offers round-the-clock emergency services. They should be able to answer your call at any time and dispatch a team quickly. The faster they arrive, the better the chances of minimizing further damage and costs. A slow response could mean losing valuable items or having to replace what could have been salvaged.
Extensive Experience in Both Fire and Water Restoration
Fire and water damage restoration are two different beasts, and your chosen company should have deep experience in both. After a fire, for example, you may be dealing with structural issues, soot, and smoke damage—alongside water damage caused by sprinkler systems or fire hoses.
An experienced company understands how to:
– Extract water and dry structural materials
– Safely remove soot, ash, and toxic residues
– Eliminate persistent smoke odors
– Prevent mold and mildew from forming
– Rebuild or restore damaged areas
Ask how long the company has been in business and request to see photos of past projects or references. A reputable company should be happy to provide evidence of successful restorations. It’s also helpful if the company specializes in full-service restoration so they can handle everything from cleanup to construction.
Clear Communication, Detailed Estimates, and Transparent Pricing
When dealing with fire or water damage, surprises are the last thing you want—especially when it comes to costs. Reputable restoration companies provide detailed written estimates after assessing the damage. They’ll walk you through what needs to be done, how long it will take, and how much it’s likely to cost.
Good companies will:
– Offer a transparent and itemized estimate
– Explain the process in plain language
– Provide a timeline for completion
– Keep you informed throughout the project
– Help you navigate the insurance claims process
Avoid companies that offer vague pricing, won’t provide a written estimate, or try to rush you into signing contracts without clear explanations. Restoration work is too important—and expensive—to leave in the hands of a company you don’t fully trust.
Positive Reviews and a Solid Local Reputation
Reputation matters—especially in the restoration industry. One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a company is by reading what past clients have to say. Start by checking reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for consistent comments about professionalism, reliability, and quality of service.
Here are a few things to look out for:
– Are customers satisfied with the results?
– Do they mention punctuality and good communication?
– How does the company respond to negative feedback?
– Do they have repeat clients or referrals?
A company with a strong local reputation is more likely to be dependable, accessible, and responsive if something goes wrong. It’s even better if they’re active in your community—they’ll understand local regulations, weather challenges, and common building materials in your area.
Choosing the right fire and water restoration company is one of the most important steps in recovering from a disaster. It’s not just about cleaning up the mess—it’s about ensuring your home or business is safe, healthy, and structurally sound after the damage is done.
By prioritizing certifications, emergency availability, real-world experience, clear communication, and a proven reputation, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to recover quickly and fully. If you’re not currently dealing with a disaster, this is still a great time to research and save the contact information of a reliable local restoration company. Preparation now can save you precious time when every minute counts later.