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How Do I Choose a Water Damage Restoration Company?

Water damage can strike unexpectedly — whether from a burst pipe, overflowing appliance, or a roof leak during heavy rain. When disaster hits, time is of the essence. Choosing the right water damage restoration company is critical to ensuring your home is properly dried, repaired, and protected from mold growth and structural issues.

But how do you know which restoration company is the right one for the job?

In this article, we’ll break down the key factors you should consider when selecting a water damage restoration company, especially if you’re located in or around the Atlanta Metro Area.

Why Choosing the Right Company Matters

Water damage restoration is more than just drying things out. It’s a multi-step process that requires experience, training, and the right equipment. Poor or incomplete restoration can lead to lingering moisture, mold growth, and costly structural repairs down the line.

A qualified restoration company will:

Act fast to minimize damage
Use advanced drying and moisture detection tools
Remove contaminated materials safely
Help with insurance claims
Rebuild and restore the property to its pre-loss condition

1. Start by Checking Online Reviews

The first step in narrowing down your options is to read reviews. Sites like Google, Yelp, and Facebook provide real customer feedback that can help you gauge a company's reliability, quality of work, and customer service.

Look for companies with:

High average star ratings
A large number of recent reviews
Responses from the business to customer feedback (shows attentiveness)

Keep an eye out for patterns — both good and bad — in the reviews. Is the company consistently praised for fast response times? Do they take the time to explain the restoration process clearly? These are strong indicators of quality.

2. Ask for Credentials and Certifications

Anyone can claim to be a restoration expert, but not all providers have the proper credentials. Always ask a company if they hold industry-recognized certifications that demonstrate training and professionalism.

One of the most important certifications to look for is the IICRC Certification (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification). This ensures that the technicians have been properly trained in industry standards for water damage restoration.

At Estate Solutions, LLC, for example, all restoration work is performed by IICRC-certified technicians who follow the most up-to-date procedures and protocols in the field.

3. Verify They Are a State-Licensed Contractor

If your water damage is extensive and requires reconstruction — such as drywall replacement, flooring, or cabinetry — you’ll want a company that’s also licensed for general contracting.

This is one area where Estate Solutions, LLC stands apart. Not only are they certified for water damage restoration, but they are also a state-licensed construction company. That means they can take your project from cleanup to complete rebuild without needing to bring in a separate contractor. It’s faster, more efficient, and minimizes headaches for the homeowner.

4. Look for Local Experience in the Atlanta Metro Area

Working with a company that knows the local area is important. Local restoration companies understand the unique risks, climate, and building materials commonly used in homes and businesses in your area.

Whether you’re in Douglasville, Marietta, Decatur, or downtown Atlanta, a local provider like Estate Solutions, LLC brings a community-focused approach and can respond quickly in an emergency.

5. Ask About Their Emergency Response Time

Water damage is a 24/7 issue — leaks, floods, and pipe bursts don’t wait for business hours. That’s why it’s important to choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency service.

Fast response helps reduce further damage and prevents mold growth, which can begin in as little as 24–48 hours after water exposure. When contacting a potential restoration provider, ask:

Do you answer calls after hours?
How quickly can you arrive on-site?
Do you bring equipment on the first visit?

6. Inquire About Insurance Assistance

Restoration companies that have experience working with insurance companies can be a huge asset during an already stressful time. They’ll help document the damage, provide detailed estimates, and may even assist in communicating directly with your insurer to ensure you get the coverage you’re entitled to.

Estate Solutions, LLC works with all major insurance companies and provides thorough documentation for claims.

7. Ask About Equipment and Restoration Techniques

Modern water damage restoration uses high-powered drying equipment, moisture meters, infrared cameras, HEPA air scrubbers, and more. These tools ensure that moisture is properly identified and removed, even from areas you can’t see.

Make sure the company you choose is using commercial-grade equipment and not relying on household fans or dehumidifiers. You want the job done thoroughly — not just on the surface.

8. Transparent Estimates and Contracts

Reputable companies will provide a clear, written estimate before starting work. Be wary of vague pricing or companies that try to lock you into a contract before you understand the full scope of the damage.

Ask for:

A breakdown of costs
Timeline of the project
Explanation of services
Information about any warranties or guarantees

Final Thoughts: Trust and Communication Matter

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. A good restoration company will communicate clearly, answer your questions, and make you feel confident that your home is in good hands.

Choosing a company like Estate Solutions, LLC means partnering with professionals who care about doing the job right — from the initial emergency response to the final coat of paint after repairs.

Need Water Damage Restoration in the Atlanta Metro Area?

If you’re facing water damage in your home or business, don’t wait. Estate Solutions, LLC is a state-licensed construction company and IICRC-certified restoration provider serving the entire Atlanta Metro Area.

Call 404-913-3030 for 24/7 emergency service or to schedule an inspection. We’re here to help you recover quickly, safely, and completely.