What It’s Really Like to be a Restoration Professional: Hidden Challenges of the Disaster Recovery Industry

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

While on the job, crews learn some of the unique challenges that are not immediately apparent to those outside the industry.

Hidden Challenges of the Disaster Recovery Industry

The restoration industry is critical to the rebuilding and recovery process of commercial and residential properties after disasters, such as fires, floods, and storms. These industry professionals work tirelessly to help homeowners and business owners return to their properties as quickly and safely as possible.

While on the job, crews learn some of the unique challenges that are not immediately apparent to those outside the industry.

These challenges, while daunting, are actually a great opportunity to showcase skills and problem-solving abilities. Here are some of the hidden challenges faced by restoration professionals and what it's really like to work in the disaster recovery industry.

What It’s (sometimes) Like to Work as a Restoration Professional

1. Limited Accessibility

Some areas of the building may be difficult to access, such as CRAWL SPACES, attics, or basements. Restoration professionals must be able to navigate these spaces safely and effectively in order to properly assess and mitigate the damage. Thankfully, the International Residential Code (IRC) now requires crawl space entrances to measure a minimum of 16 inches high and 24 inches wide.

2. Time Constraints

Restoration work needs to be done quickly in order to minimize the damage and PREVENT FURTHER DETERIORATION. This can be challenging, particularly in the aftermath of a major disaster spanning a large region, like when Hurricane Ida hit the gulf. When a large region is affected, multiple buildings need to be restored at the same time. In general, a 24/7 emergency service restoration professional should be on-site within a few hours of being contacted—if not sooner—to assess the damage, develop a plan to mitigate it and begin the restoration process. The specific timeline for response may vary based on factors such as the severity of the damage, the location of the property, and the availability of resources.

3. Unforeseen Complications

Sometimes, the damage is more extensive than originally thought, or hidden issues are discovered during the restoration process. Anyone who has taken on a home renovation project knows the construction adages all too well. Restoration professionals must be able to adapt to these complications and develop new plans of action as needed to keep the project going, as is within their means.

4. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Restoration professionals often need to work with insurance companies and their adjusters to get the necessary coverage for the restoration work. This can be a time-consuming and complicated process, particularly when dealing with large-scale damage. However, the frequency of these transactions can make professionals familiar with insurance claims, creating a more efficient experience for all parties.

5. Keeping Up with the Latest Technologies and Techniques

The restoration industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques being developed all the time. Restoration professionals must be able to stay up-to-date with these changes in order to provide the most effective and efficient service. Thankfully, SERVPRO takes training seriously and invests heavily in their employees' frequent education and development.

Rewarding

Working as a restoration professional can be as rewarding as it is demanding. It takes a dedicated individual to pursue this line of work, but there are many positives to the job that make it all worthwhile.

Why Choose Restoration?

1. To help people in their time of need and make a real difference in their lives
2. To work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with new challenges every day
3. To develop a wide range of skills, from construction to communication and customer service
4. For career growth and industry advancement opportunities
5. To work with a team of like-minded individuals who share a common goal of helping others
6. To CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY and make a positive impact on the local area
7. For job security in a career, as disasters and emergencies will always occur and restoration services will always be in demand

Can SERVPRO be a career?

The restoration industry offers a diverse range of career paths and opportunities for professional growth. If you're looking for a dynamic work environment that allows you to make a difference in people's lives, then SERVPRO may be the perfect fit for you.

With over 50 years of experience in the industry, SERVPRO offers a wide range of career paths.