How to Get Restoration Work from Insurance Companies

Insurance providers follow specific processes and prefer working with certain contractors. If you don’t know what they are looking for, getting restoration jobs from insurance companies can be hard. 

In this article, you will learn how to secure restoration work through insurance companies. We’ll cover how to connect with adjusters, manage claims, negotiate fair payouts, and grow your reputation. 

Key Takeaways

• Ensure you have the necessary licenses and insurance to qualify for insurance work.
• Build relationships with insurance adjusters and agents to increase job opportunities.
• Understand the insurance claims process to handle jobs efficiently.
• Use marketing strategies to stay visible to insurance companies.
• Maintain a strong online presence to attract insurance work.
• Apply for insurance vendor programs to gain consistent work opportunities.

Role of Insurance to Get Restoration Work

Knowing the insurance restoration world is key for contractors wanting to work well with insurance companies. Insurance claims are vital in linking homeowners with skilled restoration services when they need them most.

Insurance firms team up with restoration contractors based on important criteria. These partnerships make the claims process smoother and ensure homeowners get quality work after property damage.

Contractor Selection Criteria

Claims adjusters check contractors to see how well they handle insurance claims. The best contractors know insurance policies well and can easily manage complex claims. Insurance companies have lists of top contractors to ensure homeowners get reliable restoration services. While customers can pick any contractor, working with recommended ones makes the insurance claim process easier.

Insurance companies look for contractors who show the following:

• Consistent, high-quality workmanship
• Prompt response times
• Detailed documentation skills
• Professional certification and licensing
• Reliable communication

By grasping these points, restoration contractors can become valuable partners for insurance companies. This can lead to more chances for work on insurance restoration projects.

Setting Yourself Up with Insurance Companies

If you want to get steady restoration work from insurance companies, you must set up your business correctly. Insurance providers don’t work with just anyone—they look for licensed, credible contractors who understand how their process works. Without these basics, it’s hard to get your foot in the door.

Licensing and Certification Requirements

Insurance companies prefer working with contractors who meet industry standards. Having the proper licenses and certifications proves that you are qualified and reliable.

• State Contractor License: Most states require a license for restoration work. Check with your local licensing board to ensure you are compliant.
• IICRC Certification: The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is widely recognized in the industry. Many insurance companies prefer contractors with certifications in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) or Fire and Smoke Restoration (FSRT).
• General Liability and Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Insurance providers want to work with properly insured businesses. General liability insurance protects against property damage claims, while workers' compensation covers employee injuries. Some states require both to operate legally.
• EPA Lead-Safe Certification: If you handle restoration work in older buildings, you may need EPA Lead-Safe Certification to comply with federal regulations.

Having the right credentials helps you qualify for insurance jobs and gives adjusters confidence in your work.

Building Credibility to Become a Preferred Contractor

Insurance companies rely on contractors who are professional, organized, and easy to work with. A solid reputation can set you apart from the competition.

1. Establish Strong Relationships with Adjusters: Insurance adjusters are the gatekeepers to restoration work. Treat them as business partners. Be responsive, communicate clearly, and follow through on commitments.
2. Showcase Your Experience: A well-documented portfolio with before-and-after photos of past restoration jobs can boost your credibility. Highlight projects where you worked with insurance claims.
3. Get Positive Customer Reviews: Around 93% of customers read online reviews before hiring a contractor. To get more reviews, ask your satisfied clients about their experience and share them on Google and other platforms. Positive feedback reassures insurance companies that you provide quality service.
4. Be Professional in Every Interaction: Answer calls and emails promptly. Show up on time. Submit detailed estimates and reports. Adjusters notice the small things, and professionalism makes a lasting impression.

Understanding Insurance Policies

To work effectively with insurance companies, you need to understand how their policies and claims process work. If you do not, you could end up underbidding jobs, dealing with payment delays, or missing out on opportunities.

• Learn Common Insurance Terms: Knowing the basics like Actual Cash Value (ACV), Replacement Cost Value (RCV), and Depreciation will help you navigate claims better.
• Understand Coverage Limits: Not all policies cover full restoration costs. Some policies have deductibles, exclusions, or payout caps. Knowing this upfront helps you set the right expectations with homeowners regarding the insurance system.
• Follow Insurance Billing Procedures: Most insurance companies require detailed documentation, including estimates, invoices, and proof of damage. Using industry-standard software like Xactimate can streamline your billing and improve approval rates.

The more you understand the claims process, the smoother your jobs will go. Insurance adjusters prefer working with contractors who know how to follow their guidelines without constant back-and-forth.

Establishing Relationships to Get Restoration Work from Insurance Companies

Insurance providers and adjusters prefer working with contractors they know and trust. You'll struggle to get consistent jobs if you’re not on their radar.

Building strong relationships with insurance professionals takes time, but it pays off. The more you connect with adjusters, agents, and public adjusters, the more opportunities you will have to secure restoration work. 

Connecting with Insurance Adjusters and Agents

Insurance adjusters and agents are the key decision-makers when it comes to assigning restoration jobs. Adjusters handle claims, while agents sell policies and guide homeowners through the claims process. If they know and trust you, they are more likely to recommend your services.

To build that trust, focus on making their job easier. Adjusters deal with a high volume of claims, so they appreciate contractors who provide clear estimates, thorough documentation, and fast response times. If you can streamline the process for them, they will be more inclined to work with you.

Being professional and responsive goes a long way. Adjusters work on tight deadlines, and if you are quick to return calls, submit reports on time, and follow up when needed, they will see you as a dependable contractor.

Networking Strategies for Securing Restoration Jobs

Knowing the right people in the insurance industry can open doors to consistent restoration work. Here are some smart networking strategies to get in front of decision-makers.

• Attend Insurance Industry Events: Conferences and trade shows, like the Property & Liability Resource Bureau (PLRB) Claims Conference, attract insurance professionals looking for reliable contractors.
• Join Local Business Associations: Groups like the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”) or local chambers of commerce can connect you with insurance agents who may need restoration contractors for their clients.
• Leverage Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn are great for connecting with insurance professionals. Join insurance and restoration-related groups, share insights, and engage with adjusters and agents in your area.
• Ask for Referrals: Once you have worked with an adjuster, ask if they can refer you to others in their network. Word-of-mouth referrals from trusted colleagues go a long way.

Partnering with Public Claim Adjusters and Legal Experts

Public claim adjusters work directly for homeowners, not insurance companies. Their job is to ensure policyholders receive fair payouts for their claims. While they sometimes have conflicts with insurance adjusters, they can also be valuable partners for restoration contractors. Since they advocate for homeowners, they often recommend contractors to handle repairs.

Connecting with public adjusters starts with outreach. Look for independent public adjusters in your area and introduce yourself. Explain how your restoration services can help their clients get the best possible outcome. Collaboration benefits both parties. Homeowners get quality restoration work, and you get a steady flow of referrals from adjusters who trust your expertise.

Legal experts can also play a role in securing restoration work. Some insurance claims lead to disputes over coverage, and attorneys specializing in insurance cases often need contractors to assess damages or provide expert opinions. Partnering with these professionals can open the door to high-value projects, especially in cases involving large claims or complex insurance negotiations.

Mastering the Claims Process to Get More Insurance Restoration Jobs

If you want a steady flow of insurance restoration leads, you need to master the claims process. Insurance companies prefer working with contractors who understand how claims work, follow their procedures, and provide accurate documentation. The smoother you make the process, the more likely adjusters will trust you with future jobs.

A well-managed claims process also helps homeowners. Many are unfamiliar with how insurance payouts work and rely on you to guide them. When you can explain the process clearly, help them avoid delays, and submit proper documentation, you build credibility and increase your chances of getting referrals.

The insurance claims process follows a set structure, and knowing each step will help you navigate it efficiently.

• Initial Damage Assessment: When a homeowner files a claim, an insurance adjuster is assigned to inspect the damage. Your role is to conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed estimate of the restoration work needed. Using Xactimate or another estimating software helps ensure your costs align with industry standards.
• Submitting an Accurate Estimate: Insurance adjusters expect itemized, well-documented estimates. Be clear about the scope of work, materials, and labor costs. A poorly documented estimate can delay approval or result in a lower payout.
• Working with the Adjuster: Once the estimate is submitted, the adjuster will review it and may request revisions. It’s important to be cooperative and flexible while partnering with insurance to advocate for fair compensation. The better your communication, the smoother the approval process.
• Approval and Work Authorization: After the claim is approved, you will need a signed agreement from the homeowner before starting work. Make sure they understand what’s covered by insurance and any out-of-pocket costs they may have.
• Final Documentation and Payment: Upon completing the job, submit final invoices, photos, and any required reports to ensure timely payment. Many insurance companies take 30 to 60 days to process contractor payments, so keeping thorough records helps prevent payment disputes.

Marketing Your Business to Attract Insurance Work

Even if you are the best restoration contractor in town, insurance companies will not send you work if they do not know you exist. Restoration marketing is essential for building your reputation, getting noticed by adjusters and agents, and positioning yourself as a go-to contractor for insurance jobs. 

Building a Strong Online Presence

Most insurance professionals research contractors online before making referrals. If your business does not have a solid digital presence, you are missing out on leads from insurance companies.

Start with a professional website that clearly outlines your services, showcases past projects, and includes customer testimonials. A well-optimized website can help you rank higher in search results, making it easier for insurance agents and adjusters to find you when they need a reliable contractor for insurance companies.

Local SEO is also key. 46% of all Google searches are for local businesses, so claim and optimize your Google Business Profile. Make sure your contact details, business hours, and services are accurate. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews. The more positive reviews you have, the more credible your business looks to insurance professionals.

Networking with Insurance Professionals

Building relationships with insurance adjusters, agents, and public adjusters can lead to more referrals. Attend local industry events, insurance trade shows, and business networking groups to meet key decision-makers. Hand out business cards, introduce yourself, and explain how you can help streamline the claims process.

Another way to network is by partnering with local insurance agencies. Many agents refer policyholders to contractors when they file claims. Stop by local offices, introduce yourself, and offer to be their go-to restoration expert. You can also offer lunch-and-learn sessions where you educate agents on restoration work, which keeps you at the top of their minds when they need to recommend a contractor.

Leveraging Social Media for Brand Awareness

Social media is a powerful tool for reaching insurance professionals. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with adjusters, agents, and industry experts. Share helpful content about the claims process, post before-and-after restoration photos, and engage with posts from insurance professionals to stay visible in their network.

Facebook and Instagram are also valuable for local brand awareness. Posting customer testimonials, job site updates, and educational content about the restoration process can position you as an expert in your field. Running targeted google ads in your service area can also help you reach homeowners dealing with insurance claims.

Getting Listed on Insurance Vendor Programs

Many insurance companies have preferred contractor lists, also known as vendor programs. These programs give restoration contractors direct access to insurance work. To qualify, you typically need the right licenses, insurance coverage, and a proven track record of quality service.

Check with major insurance carriers in your area and see their vendor program requirements. While getting approved can take time, being on a preferred contractor list can lead to a steady flow of work.

Conclusion

Getting restoration work from insurance companies is not just about doing good repairs. It is about understanding how the insurance system works, building strong relationships, and marketing your business effectively to insurance agents and adjusters. You can create a steady pipeline of insurance-backed jobs by getting the right licenses, networking with adjusters, mastering the claims process, and positioning yourself as a trusted contractor.

If you need help marketing your restoration business and getting in front of the right people, Duo Digital can help. We specialize in digital marketing for service businesses, helping you generate leads, build credibility, and secure more insurance work. Let’s grow your business together—contact us today!

FAQ

How do I get on an insurance company’s preferred contractor list?

Most insurance companies have vendor programs for preferred contractors. You typically need proper licensing, insurance coverage, a solid track record, and experience working with claims to qualify. Contact local insurance providers to ask about their application process.

What types of restoration work do insurance companies cover?

Insurance companies commonly cover water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, storm damage, and structural repairs. Coverage depends on the homeowner’s policy and the cause of the damage.

How long does it take for insurance to approve a restoration claim?

The approval timeline varies. Some claims get processed within a few days, while others take weeks if documentation is incomplete or disputes arise. Providing clear estimates and proper documentation speeds up the process.

What should I do if an insurance adjuster underestimates repair costs?

If an adjuster’s estimate is too low, provide detailed documentation, including photos, material costs, and local building code requirements. If needed, involve a public adjuster to advocate for a fair payout.

Can I work directly with homeowners if their insurance claim is denied?

Yes, but the homeowner will be responsible for payment. Offer financing options or discuss alternative solutions to help them move forward with necessary repairs.

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