Allowing external parties to dictate your restoration methodology can lead to substandard work and delays. Suppose you comply, only to find out later that the adjuster’s or TPA’s methods were outdated and ineffective. Remember, you are the professional, and ultimately, you will bear the consequences.
Letting external parties dictate the methodology, scope, and pricing of your restoration projects can undervalue the overall project and be detrimental to the client. Insurers are obligated to pay the “usual and customary” and/or “reasonable” cost of repairs. Thinking that allowing external parties to control the project will ensure quicker payment or fewer disputes is a mistake, as it opens the door for documented consequences. You must provide your client (the property owner) with a scope, and allowing external control could breach this contract.
Understand this: you have a duty to your client and your client only. If your client decides to open a claim, you are positioned between the client and the available funds. Ensure your scope is well-defined so your client can determine their reimbursement eligibility, as it is not your responsibility. Your duty is to educate, advise, and/or warn your client about their situation so they can decide what they are willing to allow you to perform.
Skipping risk management practices such as exposing the risk in your thorough documentation and clear contract terms can lead to a lawsuit from a client who claims you breached the contract or damaged their property. This oversight can lead to loss of credibility, increased liability, disputes, and financial losses. Proper risk management helps to mitigate these issues and protect your business.
Actionable Advice:
- Maintain Professional Control: Keep control over project methodology, scope, and pricing.
- Define Scope Clearly: Provide a detailed scope to the client to avoid contract breaches.
- Educate Clients: Inform clients about their situation to help them make decisions.
- Document Thoroughly: Keep comprehensive documentation to protect against legal issues.
- Implement Risk Management: Follow robust risk management practices to mitigate liability and disputes.
- Flexible Pricing: Adjust pricing structures to fit the unique needs of each project and your business.
Luis Suarez
Luis Suarez is a seasoned technical educator and consultant with over a decade of experience in the Restoration industry. His journey in this field is marked by a passion for education and a strong commitment to helping others succeed.
As the founder and leader of RestorRight Bilingual Academy, Luis has created a dynamic platform aimed at advancing knowledge and skills within the restoration community. This endeavor was inspired and supported by Recovapro LLC, a prominent water and fire restoration company whose mission aligns with Luis's dedication to education and mentorship.
Luis's primary objective is to guide and mentor aspiring professionals in the restoration industry, helping them navigate the challenges that come their way. His immediate goal is to become an approved IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification) instructor, enabling him to provide certification courses in both English and Spanish. This reflects his commitment to making high-quality training accessible to a broader, more diverse audience.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Luis is a loving husband and the father of two energetic youngsters who keep him on his toes whenever he's not furthering his own education.
Luis is eagerly anticipating the upcoming opportunity to travel across the United States, sharing his knowledge and expertise with students in both English and Spanish through IICRC certification courses. His journey in the restoration industry is marked by dedication, a passion for education, and a drive to make a positive impact.
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