Caring for Contents
Restoration firms often use contractors to cover contents cleaning and restoration, but many times, insurers offer policyholders replacement dollars instead. However, restoration firms should not tackle contents unless they have the proper training and equipment. With proper training and equipment, these firms have a viable business growth opportunity. Modern technology is only part of the solution, with successful firms implementing managerial and technical services techniques to ensure quality and efficient contents cleaning and restoration. Attention to detail is essential in contents cleaning and restoration. Barb Jackson, founder of Total Contentz, says, "There are many pitfalls, which can cost you the entire profitability of a job. Breakage, accusations of theft, and inefficiencies are just a few examples. I recommend a conservative approach for getting into contents restoration." She advises that firms start with on-site contents cleaning, such as using a HEPA vacuum and microfiber cloths to clean furniture and small contents covered with drywall dust. Larger jobs will require safe storage and a staging area in which to clean contents, and each item needs to be properly wrapped, bagged, or boxed to prevent damage when moved.