When a home emergency occurs—whether it’s water damage, fire, or mold—most homeowners find themselves navigating the restoration process for the first time. With so many contractors available, knowing who to trust can feel overwhelming.
In this expert interview, Felipe Jimenez De Lucio Perez explains what homeowners should look for when selecting a restoration contractor, which certifications truly matter, and how to avoid common pitfalls after a disaster.
Choosing the Right Contractor After Home Damage
One of the most important steps after experiencing home damage is selecting a qualified and trustworthy restoration contractor. According to industry expert Felipe Jimenez De Lucio Perez, homeowners should focus on a few key indicators of professionalism and reliability.
First and foremost, look for IICRC certification, which sets the standard for water, fire, and mold restoration practices. Contractors should be able to clearly explain and follow these established industry guidelines. If a company cannot demonstrate this knowledge, it may not be the right choice for your home.
For reconstruction work, it is also essential to confirm that the contractor holds a valid state contractor license, along with appropriate liability insurance coverage. This helps ensure that the work performed is legally compliant and financially protected.
Homeowners should also ask for references and verify past work experience. A reputable contractor should be willing to provide them without hesitation.
Another important factor is whether the company is backed by a national franchise or established network. This can be especially valuable during large-scale disaster events, as it allows access to additional resources, expertise, and support from multiple locations.
Additionally, homeowners should ask whether the contractor uses Xactimate estimating software, which is commonly required by insurance companies for accurate and standardized claims processing.
Finally, it is important to be cautious of storm chasers and door-to-door contractors who appear immediately after a disaster. These individuals may not have long-term accountability and often disappear after collecting payment. Choosing an established company with a proven track record is critical for peace of mind.
What Certifications Should a Restoration Company Have?
Certifications play a crucial role in ensuring that restoration work is performed correctly, safely, and efficiently.
In New York State, several certifications and licenses are considered essential:
1. IICRC Certifications
Key industry credentials include:
- WRT (Water Restoration Technician)
- ASD (Applied Structural Drying)
- FSRT (Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician)
These certifications ensure that technicians understand how to properly handle water and fire damage. Importantly, they also emphasize efficiency—focusing on drying and restoring materials whenever possible rather than unnecessary demolition.
On the fire restoration side, FSRT training covers odor removal and soot cleanup techniques that restore indoor environments safely and effectively.
2. New York State Mold Licensing
In addition to industry certifications, New York requires a state-specific mold license. While mold-related training exists under the IICRC system, New York law mandates separate certification for anyone performing mold remediation work within the state.
This ensures that mold-related hazards are addressed according to strict regulatory standards.
3. Home Improvement Contractor License
For reconstruction and repair work, contractors must also hold a Home Improvement Contractor License, issued by the appropriate New York regulatory authority.
This license ensures that contractors meet legal requirements for performing residential repair and renovation work.
Why Proper Certification Matters
Certified restoration professionals are trained not only to repair damage but also to do so in a cost-effective and minimally invasive way. Proper techniques can significantly reduce unnecessary demolition and help preserve as much of the original structure as possible.
From water extraction and structural drying to fire and mold remediation, certified contractors follow established standards designed to protect both the home and the homeowner’s investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right restoration contractor is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make after a disaster. By focusing on certifications, licensing, experience, and reputation, homeowners can better protect themselves from unnecessary risk and ensure a smoother recovery process.
A qualified restoration company should always be transparent, well-trained, and prepared to guide homeowners through every step of the restoration journey.
