How to Choose a Restoration Contractor

What makes a restoration contractor different

A restoration contractor specializes in insurance repair work, as opposed to a general remodeling contractor. They understand XactimateHow Insurance Estimates Work: Xactimate Explained for HomeownersNearly every insurance repair estimate in the United States is created using Xactimate, a specialized software program. Understanding how Xactimate...
Read more → line items and pricing, know how to write and submit supplements, are experienced in working with insurance adjusters, and understand the claim timeline. They are accustomed to working within an insurance scope while ensuring the homeowner gets the full repair they are entitled to.

Credentials and certifications to look for

Look for contractors with IICRC certification (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), which is the industry standard for water damage, fire damage, and mold remediationMold Assessment and Remediation After Water DamageMold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Professional mold assessment and remediation is almost universally omitted from initia...
Read more →. A general contractorGeneral Contractor vs. Handyman: When You Need a GCFor smaller repairs a handyman may be perfectly capable, but insurance repairs that involve multiple trades, structural work, or permits require a ...
Read more → license is required for most structural repair work. Verify their insurance (general liability and workers compensation).

Check for complaints with your state's contractor licensing board and the Better Business Bureau. Ask for references from recent insurance repair projects.

Red flags to watch for

Be cautious of contractors who ask for large upfront payments before starting work. Avoid anyone who pressures you to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) without fully explaining what it means. Be wary of storm chasers who go door-to-door after major weather events.

Contractors who cannot provide a detailed written scope of work, proof of insurance, or references should be avoided. If they cannot explain the repair process clearly, move on.

Getting the right estimate

A good restoration contractor will inspect your damage and provide a detailed Xactimate estimate that you can compare directly to your insurance estimate. They should be able to identify items that are missing from the insurance scope and explain why each item is needed. Ask them to walk you through the estimate line by line.

The contractor's estimate gives you the information you need to evaluate whether your insurance settlement is fair.

What to do

Get estimates from at least two or three restoration contractors before choosing one. Ask each one about their experience with insurance claims, their Xactimate capabilities, and their supplementWhat Is a Supplemental Claim and When to File OneA supplemental claim is a request to add items to your existing insurance estimate after the original scope was written. Supplements are standard i...
Read more → process. Ask for references and call them.

Verify their license and insurance. Choose the contractor who communicates clearly, provides a thorough scope, and demonstrates experience with the insurance process, not just the one with the lowest bid.