Get it in writing when it comes to home work
For almost a month now I’ve received calls about contractors in our local area who are telling folks they either represent my company or are related to me (cousin). To be honest, I have no immediate family in the local area and if they represent my company you will meet with me first before any work is done on your property.
After our meeting, I assign a journeyman with apprentices to do the job which I monitor closely until the job is completed. As a master craftsman, I take the time to communicate with the homeowner frequently to resolve any issues they may have during the project. The bottom line is — if you don’t meet or talk to me, it’s not my company doing the work.
Because of the current economic condition of our economy, a lot of sub-standard contractors are out of work; please be careful when dealing with contractors you don’t know.
Personally, I’m very impressed with homeowners’ who take the time to verify what I’m certified in, licensed to do and when they ask about insurance and bonding.
In today’s market there seem to be an abundance of businesses that specialize in the cleaning and restoration in one form or another. The cast of characters will vary from highly trained professionals and capable companies to one night operations.
It’s very difficult to find the right company that will make it their job to satisfy your individual needs. If you find yourself in this situation, please consider the following before you hire a company:
1. Find out if they maintain certifications in professional societies. Most societies require a certain amount of education, knowledge testing, and minimum amount of time in the field, usually five years. This verification usually assures a certain amount of professionalism. In my case, not only am I certified but my company is also certified firm by IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration).
2. Find out if they are members of local associations, e.g., Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, etc.
3. Get proof of insurance, e.g., liability insurance of at least $500,000 and workman’s compensation. My company, for example, carries a $2 million general liability policy, $5,000 janitorial bond, and workmen’s compensation insurance.
4. Have them put in writing exactly what they are going to do for you and what their fees are for their service. Anyone who has been in business very long knows how long it will take to restore something and the basic costs associated with the service. It should be noted that Fire, Flood, Mold and Trauma/Crime Scene, clean ups are going to be fairly expensive because of the specialized type of cleaning and restoration that is required. Also the time to finish the project may vary depending on conditions found at the property. One of these jobs can take from several days to several months. Remember “Murphy’s law” — Anything can happen during a protracted clean up.
5. Find out what their personal background is like. Are they a local company? Where did they initially learn their skills, e.g. military, apprenticeship, etc.
6. Don’t open your door to just anyone. They should have identification, business cards and literature showing they are a solidly based business. Remember, your safety and security is the most important thing.
7. Your satisfaction should be their guarantee. If you not happy with what they have done, they should come back promptly and complete the job to your satisfaction.
If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266) or e-mail them to nwees@hughes.net or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do? For more information about Ed, check him out at NWEES.COM
n Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is the CEO of Northwest Executive & Environmental Services, Inc.