When disaster strikes, whether it’s water damage, a sewer backup, or another home emergency, your first instinct might be to handle the repairs yourself or hire the cheapest option available. While this may seem like a way to save money upfront, it can lead to costly consequences down the road. Here’s why hiring a licensed contractor is the smartest choice for protecting your home, your family, and your investment.

The Risks of Improper Cleanup

When homeowners attempt to manage water or sewer damage without professional help, they often miss crucial steps in the cleanup process. This can lead to:

  1. Mold Growth and Rot: If areas behind baseboards or inside wall cavities remain wet, mold or rot can develop, leading to structural issues and health hazards. Mold remediation and structural repairs are significantly more expensive than addressing the initial damage.
  2. Health Hazards: With sewer backups, improper decontamination can leave harmful bacteria behind, putting your family at risk for serious illnesses.
  3. Uncovered Damages: Homeowners insurance typically won’t cover mold or rot resulting from improper drying. What seems like a short-term saving could result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.

Why Choose a Licensed Contractor?

Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that the job is done correctly, safely, and to industry standards. Here’s how a licensed contractor protects you:

  1. Proper Training and Tools: Licensed contractors use specialized tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to identify all wet areas, even those you can’t see. For sewer backups, they follow strict decontamination protocols and can verify cleanliness through testing.
  2. Insurance and Liability Coverage: Licensed contractors carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance, which protects you from:
    1. Property Damage: If something goes wrong during the repair process, their insurance covers it.
    2. Injuries on Your Property: If an unlicensed contractor’s worker gets hurt, you could be held responsible for medical bills. With a licensed contractor, you’re protected.
  3. Compliance with Laws and Codes: Licensed contractors are required to follow local building codes and regulations. They can provide a report detailing:
    1. The extent of the damage
    2. The steps taken to resolve it
    3. Assurances that the work was completed to code or better

This documentation is invaluable if you ever sell your home, as it proves the issue was properly addressed.

Protecting Yourself When Selling Your Home

In Tennessee, failing to disclose damage or improper repairs when selling your home can make you legally liable for the buyer’s repair costs. By hiring a licensed contractor, you ensure:

  • The work is done correctly.
  • You have proper documentation to show prospective buyers or inspectors.
  • You’re protected from future legal disputes over undisclosed damages.

How to Vet a Contractor

Before hiring a contractor, take these steps to ensure they’re qualified:

  1. Verify Their License: Check the Tennessee State website at verify.tn.gov.
  2. Ask for Insurance Proof: Ensure they carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance.
  3. Look Up Reviews: Check online reviews and the Tennessee Contractors Board for any complaints.
  4. Request References: Call previous clients to confirm their satisfaction with the work.

Why Homeowners Should Avoid DIY Repairs

Many homeowners underestimate the complexity of water and sewer damage repairs. For example:

  • Hidden Wet Areas: Without professional tools, it’s easy to miss moisture behind walls or under floors, leading to mold growth.
  • Lead Paint Risks: In older homes, cutting into walls without considering lead paint can create health risks.

A qualified contractor has the expertise to address these issues properly, ensuring your home is safe for your family.

Call the Experts at Innovative Restorations

The best way to protect your investment and your family’s safety is to hire a qualified, licensed contractor. At Innovative Restorations, we specialize in water damage cleanup, mold remediation, and biohazard restoration. Our team ensures the job is done right the first time, providing you with peace of mind and protecting your home’s value.

Contact us today for a free consultation and moisture inspection. Let us help you navigate your repairs and decide whether filing an insurance claim is the right choice for you.

Josiah Kessie is the owner of Innovative Restorations LLC. He lives with his wife and 3 children in Middle TN. Josiah started his business in 2005 and is a TN licensed Contractor as well as IICRC certified in water damage, mold and trauma clean up and Dept of Ag certification and EPA lead paint certified.

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