When water damage hits, time is everything. You need a company that acts fast, knows NYC inside out, and delivers results without excuses. Not all restoration services are equal, and choosing the wrong one can cost you more than just time.
Here’s what to look for to make sure you’re hiring the best professional water damage restoration company—and why we’re the team NYC trusts to get the job done right.
From burst pipes in Manhattan apartments to basement flooding after a Queens storm, we’ve seen it all—and more importantly, we’ve fixed it all.
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Why you need a water damage restoration service
Storms and floods are the most common causes of structural damage in New York, with multiple cases resulting in damages that exceed $1 billion (NCEI).
Even minor water damage can cause extensive issues for a commercial or residential property. Excess moisture leads to mold growth, and water that penetrates walls and flooring can weaken your building’s structural elements.
Attempting to prevent water damage from worsening and salvaging your belongings alone might lead to more damage, but a professional remediation service has the expertise and tools to:
- Remove excess moisture
- Give your belongings the best chances of survival
- Identify potential areas for mold growth
- Safely remove and dispose of contaminated items
- Dry and sanitize it thoroughly
- Restore your building to its pre-loss condition
Of course, the big problem is finding a professional restoration service to support you throughout the process.
Next, we’ll cover top considerations when choosing a NYC restoration company.
1: Response time and availability
When water damage impacts your property, acting instantly ensures a complete restoration. The last thing you need is a restoration company that makes you wait, so look for a 24/7 emergency line.
A reputable restoration service should visit your property immediately and perform emergency services to prevent further damage.
Remember, traffic conditions and the hectic nature of NYC itself can make a rapid response challenging, but reputable companies will have local technicians in place.
2: Certification and licensing
Does the company have certifications and licenses? For example, any reputable restoration service in New York should have the following certifications on its website:
- IICRC: The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) is globally recognized and has high standards that companies must follow to obtain certification.
- RIA: The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) also has strict rules regulating restoration companies.
Looking for EPA-certified firms also demonstrates that the service plays an active role in supporting the environment.
3: Available services
Another thing you should look for is whether the company offers multiple services. Water damage often causes mold, structural issues, and lingering odors, but finding a full-service solution can give you peace of mind.
It also saves money and time, simplifying the entire process for your insurance company. Look for companies that offer the following services:
- Mold Remediation: Mold spores love moisture and can quickly multiply. Acting quickly and knowing where to look for mold is vital, and specialist technicians can eliminate it from your property—or even prevent it from growing in the first place.
- Reconstruction Services: Your chosen company should also offer commercial and residential reconstruction services. Contractors can visit the property and help restore it to its pre-loss condition.
- Cleaning: Aside from attempting to salvage your belongings, the restoration service should also offer support when cleaning the property. Check whether the technicians will remove any odors and sanitize affected areas or if you’ll have to pay a specialist cleaning service.
- Insurance Support: Insurance providers are notorious for trying to reduce payments for water damage, but a professional restoration service should offer support throughout the claim and ensure you receive a payment that covers any repairs.
4: Advanced techniques and equipment
One of the main reasons people use restoration services is their access to specialist equipment. Industry-grade tools can eradicate excess water quickly, eliminate mold, and ensure the property doesn’t experience any long-term complications.
Here are the most important tools to ask about:
- Infrared Cameras: Water can penetrate ceilings, walls, and flooring, leaving hidden damage that most people won’t notice. Infrared cameras pinpoint hidden water without using invasive methods.
- Water Extractors: Professional water extractors are much more advanced than standard versions. They remove large volumes of water, making it easier to dry the property.
- Dehumidifiers and Drying Tools: Even after extracting standing water, moisture in building materials can lead to rot, decay, and structural issues. Dehumidifiers and drying equipment remove excess moisture from affected areas.
- Air Scrubbers and Purifiers: Flood and sewer water can release harmful bacteria into the air, but air scrubbers with HEPA filters safely remove contaminants and enhance air quality.
- Moisture Meters: Restoration professionals will measure moisture in your property throughout the restoration process to ensure no hidden moisture.
5: Reviews from previous clients
Last but definitely not least, look for companies with positive client reviews and make sure they’re well-known throughout NYC.
A reputable water damage restoration service can showcase testimonials, but Trustpilot and Google are the best places to research a potential company.
Before and after photos are also important, highlighting the company’s previous projects and providing additional peace of mind.
If you can’t find any reviews or they’re more negative than positive, you’ll know it’s probably best to look for a more reputable service.
Warning signs to avoid include:
- Companies that don’t have a 24/7 emergency line.
- No certifications on the website.
- Vague or excessively low estimates (if it seems too good to be true, it always is).
- Services that don’t accurately explain how they can help you recover from water damage.
- Websites with limited services available.
Do you need immediate water damage support?
If water damage is causing problems for your property, Manhattan Flood Restoration is here to help. As one of New York’s top-rated water damage restoration services, we have the knowledge and experience to work on projects of all sizes.
Whether you need water damage restoration support for a small leak, mold remediation, or a reconstruction service, Manhattan Flood Restoration offers a full-service solution from start to finish.
With 24/7 support, 365 days a year, and experts who ensure you receive the right payment from your insurance company, you can count on us to restore your property. If you’re not dealing with an emergency, please contact us today to arrange a site visit. You can reach our 24/7 rapid response team at +16467414011, and we’ll get to your property as soon as possible.
