Water damage contractors are a dime a dozen but that doesn’t mean they’re all the same. Because of that reason, property managers can have a hard time finding affordable help. But even when a great company is hired to do the work, bad things can still happen.
Being prepared for the unknown is important, especially when you’ve got money on the line. So, protect yourself and your assets by learning these important facts before signing your name.
The job description of legit water damage contractors
Sometimes called “restoration technicians,” these professionals provide a wide range of services. Their primary goal is to remove and/or repair damaged property due to prolonged exposure to excessive moisture. The methods used for that work can vary greatly because of numerous factors.
Contractors typically assess the situation upon arrival and then formulate an action plan based on what they see. Details of that plan are centered on the property owner’s goals most of the time. However, experts sometimes require the homeowner to take their hands off the wheel for maximum impact.
A pro comes in to clean up the sopping property that can’t be saved. They restore items, install new materials, and sanitize the space. Plumbing and mold remediation are common practices as well. That’s why their contracts are so long and their bills are so expensive.
5 things restoration techs look at when writing a service contract
You can minimize the size of your invoice just by taking a more proactive approach to this. Here are the five things that most RTs look at when estimating the cost of services:
- The Size – The square footage of your waterlogged space will play a big role in how much you end up paying for help.
- The Scope – Severely damaged homes cost a lot more to repair than properties with minor issues.
- The Timeline – Shorter project schedules can mean higher prices for busy water damage contractors.
- The Budget – Some services may not be available to homeowners with tight wallets.
- The Goal – Full restoration projects take more tools and time.
Figure out what you can do on your own versus what you need professional help for. That’s one great way to keep a little more money in your pocket while still getting the best service.
Other ways to save money when hiring water damage contractors
You can enjoy massive savings if you use these smart hiring tips:
- Get as many estimates as you can, and then compare prices and services carefully.
- Ask for community references and portfolios of past work.
- See if there are any sales, discounts, or incentives available.
- Buy some of your own materials if you can.
Each project is unique and that means each service contract will say different things. Make sure you understand the terms before signing your name because contract negotiation can be costly.
The takeaway
Hiring water damage contractors can be stressful and expensive, but there are ways to get around that. If you’re smart, then the numbers on the service contract won’t give you a shock.
