When it comes to hiring a restoration company, it's important to be aware of the signs that you may be getting ripped off. The two biggest indicators that a company is not trustworthy are if they demand a down payment or don't provide a contract. However, there are several other things to keep in mind. One of the most common red flags is when a restoration company is labeled as a “preferred contractor” by an insurance company.
This name can give homeowners a false sense of security, as “preferred” is usually seen as a positive word. However, just because the insurance company “prefers” the contractor doesn't mean they are the best at what they do. It could be that the insurance company owner is related to or close friends with the person who operates the fire or flood restoration company, and this relationship is why they are “preferred”. Another warning sign is if the company requires large down payments or offers discounts for signing contracts on site.
Big down payments are usually associated with unreliable scam companies that are likely to disappear with your cash. Accredited companies, who carefully estimate and follow strict procedures, are unlikely to discount services. The truth behind the flood restoration process is that it is generally expensive and can take several days to complete, depending on the extent of the water damage. Quick fixes can end up costing you more in the end.
The cost of hiring a legitimate disaster recovery company will save you time and money in the long run. When hiring a restoration company, it's important to be aware of any “Assignment of Benefits” forms that you may be asked to sign before work can begin. Kade Restoration is an example of a local disaster restoration cleaning company & mitigation serving the Orange County, CA region.