6 Tips for Hiring a Mold Removal Company

Haven’t we all heard horror stories about fraudulent contractors doing poor work on homes, or leaving with the cash without finishing the job? There are so many dishonest or untrained contractors out there, there are now entire TV shows devoted to correcting their errors. Some of the contractors mean well in their work, but simply do not have the right training and expertise to do the jobs right. So just because they’re Aunt Betty’s friend does not necessarily mean you should hire them to be working on your biggest investment: your home.

Mold removal should only ever be done by a trained and licensed mold removal expert, like the crews at Stover’s Restoration. But you don’t have to take our word for it! Here are some easy things to keep in mind when choosing a professional restoration contractor to do any kind of work in your home.

• Trust your gut

This is pretty straight forward. If a contractor comes knocking on your door dressed unprofessionally with an unmarked truck and something just doesn’t seem right, do not feel pressured to hire them.

• Ask for customer testimonials

Word of mouth is often the best marketing technique for good companies! We aim to go above and beyond the expectations of our customers, so they will tell others about us. So ask around to your family and friends for possible recommendations. Also, take a look on a company’s website for testimonials. Companies with great testimonials will definitely share them on their website and social media pages.

• Make sure they have the proper insurance in place

This is almost a no brainer with just about any service provider coming to your home. Technicians should be insured not only for safety reasons, but also for liability in case an accident happens in your home! Plus, if any subcontractors are being hired to do work on your home, they also need to have the right credentials for their area of expertise, and insurance.

• Have thorough paperwork

Obviously estimates are just that – estimates – and can change as the job changes, but unfortunately gone are the days of agreeing to thinks verbally. Having at least a broad outline on paper of the work being done in your home will save you headache later, and help you call out a company that might cut corners.

• Consider the price – high or low

While you may be tempted to accept the lowest bid, that may not be the best option. After all, you get what you pay for, right? Also, be wary of companies that low-ball you at the door, and then try to upsell you on services later. You want a clear quote and numbers right off the bat. No guesswork.

• Industry Certifications

Usually, on the “About Us” page, companies will share about their industry certifications and organizations to which they belong. Most commonly, you will see companies talk especially about IICRC-certified technicians. IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. This is a key organization for which to watch! IICRC-certified individuals have a wealth of knowledge on various cleaning and restoration techniques, surfaces, cleaners and chemicals, and so on.