Guide: How to Start a Restoration Company

Step 1: Planning, Legal Structure & Certification

Before buying equipment, you need a foundation. Develop a business plan outlining services, target market, financials, and marketing approach. Choose a legal structure (LLC is common for liability protection) and register your business.

Critically, obtain necessary licenses and insurance (General Liability, Pollution Liability). Invest in IICRC certifications – start with Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD). These are non-negotiable for credibility, especially with insurance carriers.

• Action Item: Draft a business plan & consult with legal/insurance professionals.
• Action Item: Register for IICRC WRT & ASD courses.

Step 2: Equipment, Training & Initial Staffing

Your ability to perform quality work hinges on your tools and team. Invest in professional-grade equipment: air movers, LGR dehumidifiers, extractors, air scrubbers, moisture meters, etc. Renting initially is an option, but owning key pieces is vital for response time and profitability.

Ensure your team is properly trained and certified. Efficient, safe work builds reputation. Consider your initial staffing needs – technicians are key, but also plan for administrative/dispatch support as you grow.

• Action Item: Research and budget for essential restoration equipment.
• Action Item: Plan for ongoing team training beyond initial certifications.

Step 3: Marketing & Getting Your First Customers

With the operational side planned, focus shifts to generating revenue. A professional website showcasing your services and certifications is crucial. Optimize your Google Business Profile for local search visibility.

Simultaneously, build relationships. Network with plumbers, insurance agents, property managers, and roofers – these are key referral sources. However, referrals take time.

To accelerate growth and ensure consistent cash flow from day one, **invest in a reliable lead generation system**. Partnering with a service like Real Time Lead Gen provides exclusive, real-time calls from homeowners needing immediate help. This allows you to bypass the slow ramp-up period and start booking profitable jobs right away, which is crucial for surviving the early stages of the business when cash flow is tight.

• Action Item: Develop your website and local SEO strategy.
• Action Item: Create a networking plan for key referral partners.
• Action Item: Contact Real Time Lead Gen to discuss exclusive leads for your launch.