The 10-Step Startup Checklist for a Profitable Restoration Business
Starting a restoration company from scratch can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. By breaking the process down into a series of logical, sequential steps, you can create a clear roadmap from idea to your first paying job. This is the definitive checklist based on over a decade of experience in the industry, providing a no-fluff guide on how to get into the restoration business from Real Time Lead Gen.
The 10 Essential Steps
Choose Your Legal Structure & Name: Form an LLC to protect your personal assets. Choose and register a professional business name.
Draft a Solid Business Plan & Secure Funding: Create your roadmap. This document is essential for securing a small business loan or equipment financing.
Get Licensed & Insured: Obtain your contractor's license and, most importantly, secure Contractor's Pollution Liability (CPL) insurance.
Earn Your IICRC Certifications: This is non-negotiable. Start with the Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT). Proper training is the foundation of your service, and our guide to IICRC certifications for restorers covers this in depth.
Invest in Essential Equipment: Purchase a core set of professional-grade tools: a portable extractor, 10-15 air movers, and at least 2-3 LGR dehumidifiers.
Procure & Wrap Your Vehicle: Your van is your mobile billboard. Invest in a clean, reliable vehicle and a professional wrap that builds instant trust.
Choose Your Estimating Software: Subscribe to and begin training on Xactimate. Proficiency in this software is crucial for working with insurance adjusters.
Hire Your First Technician: You can't do it all alone. Hire a reliable, IICRC-certified technician who can be the professional face of your company on job sites.
Establish Your Digital Foundation: Before you can market, you need a professional website and a fully optimized Google Business Profile (GBP).
Launch Your First 90-Day Marketing Plan: Start getting the phone to ring by focusing on foundational marketing: getting your first Google reviews and networking with potential referral partners like local plumbers.
Justin Hess - Founder of Real Time Lead Gen - We'll Make Your Phone Ring! - Generating exclusive restoration leads since 2015...lifelong internet marketer. I AM The Google Alchemist.
P.S. Following this checklist will build a solid foundation for your business. When you get to Step 10 and are ready to make your phone ring, that's our entire focus. Let us handle the leads so you can handle the jobs.
