How to Know If My Restoration Pro Is Qualified?

Your first step is to find out what licenses are required for water damage restoration in your state. In Massachusetts, the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) oversees many trade licenses. You can search their online database by the pro's name or license number.

Some states have separate licenses for general contractors, mold remediation, or asbestos abatement. Water damage work often involves more than drying and cleaning, so a pro may need multiple licenses. Check with your local city or town as well, since Quincy has its own licensing requirements for contractors.

Once you have the license number, contact the agency that issued it. You can usually do this online or by phone. The agency will confirm whether the license is active and whether any complaints have been filed against the pro.

Verification is important because some people might use a fake or expired license number. A valid license means the pro has met basic requirements, but it does not ensure quality work. Still, it is a necessary step to protect yourself.

Licensing and insurance are separate things. A license shows the pro has met state requirements, while insurance protects you if something goes wrong. Ask the pro for proof of both.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Even if a pro holds a license, their insurance might not cover all types of damage. Check your own policy to understand what is covered and what you need to document. If you are unsure, ask your insurance company.