Dealing with fire or water damage can be one of the most stressful experiences for any homeowner or property manager. In the aftermath, you’re left with more than just a mess—there’s structural damage to repair, personal belongings to salvage, and safety hazards to consider. One of the most important decisions you’ll make during this time is choosing the right restoration company to help you recover.
The company you hire will play a major role in how quickly and effectively your property is restored. Hiring the wrong team can lead to delays, poor workmanship, hidden costs, or even incomplete repairs. That’s why it’s essential to do your homework before signing a contract.
Here are the top five things to look for when hiring a fire and water restoration company:
Certifications, Licensing, and Insurance
One of the first things you should check is whether the company holds the proper licenses and certifications to operate legally and professionally in your area. Restoration work is complex—it often involves water extraction, structural drying, mold remediation, odor removal, and rebuilding. These tasks require specific training and expertise.
Look for certifications from the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), which is the recognized standard in the industry. IICRC-certified professionals follow best practices and safety protocols for handling fire and water damage.
The company should also be fully insured, carrying both liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. This protects you in case of accidental damage to your property or injuries on-site.
Hiring a company without the right credentials may seem like a way to save money upfront, but it can cost you much more in the long run through improper work or liability issues.
Fast, 24/7 Emergency Response
Disasters don’t happen on a schedule. A pipe might burst at midnight, or a kitchen fire might result in water damage from sprinklers or hoses. In situations like these, time is critical. Mold can begin growing in less than 48 hours after water exposure, and smoke residue can cause permanent damage if not addressed quickly.
That’s why it’s important to choose a restoration company that offers 24/7 emergency services. You want a team that can be on-site quickly, assess the situation, and begin mitigation immediately. The faster the response, the more you can minimize the damage—and the faster you’ll be able to return to normal life.
Before hiring, ask how quickly they respond to calls and whether they have staff on standby for emergency situations.
Proven Experience in Both Fire and Water Restoration
Not all damage restoration companies are created equal. Some specialize in water cleanup, while others focus more on fire damage. However, it’s common for these issues to overlap—firefighters often leave behind water damage from putting out flames, and smoke particles can travel through ventilation systems and settle in areas not directly affected by the fire.
The company you choose should have proven experience handling both fire and water restoration projects. Ask how many years they’ve been in business and request to see case studies or before-and-after photos of previous work. Don’t be afraid to ask for references, especially from customers who faced similar situations.
An experienced team will know how to address hidden issues, such as lingering odors, moisture trapped behind walls, or compromised structures, and will be better equipped to deliver a complete and lasting restoration.
Clear Communication and Transparent Pricing
Restoration work can be complicated, and as a customer, you deserve to understand what’s happening every step of the way. The best companies offer clear, consistent communication from the initial inspection to the final walk-through.
Look for a company that will:
– Provide a detailed written estimate
– Explain the scope of work in simple, understandable terms
– Outline the timeline for completion
– Keep you updated on progress and changes
– Work with your insurance provider if needed
Avoid companies that give vague answers or rush you into a contract without clear documentation. Restoration is a big job—transparency is key to ensuring everything gets done correctly and within budget.
Positive Reviews and a Strong Local Reputation
In today’s digital world, a company’s reputation is easier than ever to verify. Before you make your decision, spend time reading online reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for consistent positive feedback about punctuality, professionalism, quality of work, and customer service.
Pay attention to how the company handles complaints. A few negative reviews aren’t necessarily a red flag—but how the company responds to those reviews says a lot about their integrity and willingness to resolve issues.
It’s also a smart move to hire a company with strong local roots. Local businesses are often more familiar with building codes, climate-related challenges (like flood zones or fire risks), and local suppliers. Plus, they’re more likely to stand by their work and build lasting relationships with customers in the area.
Restoring your home or business after fire or water damage isn’t just about repairs—it’s about rebuilding safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Choosing the right restoration company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during that process.
By prioritizing licensing, emergency response, relevant experience, open communication, and a solid reputation, you’ll be in good hands—and one step closer to recovery.
Keep this list handy, and consider doing some research before disaster strikes. Having a trusted restoration company’s contact information saved in advance can save you valuable time when every minute counts.