Guide
Before you hire a restoration contractor in Utah
A few questions on the first call, and a two-minute license check, save most of the trouble people have with restoration jobs.
Utah licensing
Who needs a license
Utah licenses the construction trades through the Division of Professional Licensing. Under Utah Code 58-55-501, it is unlawful to engage in a construction trade or act as a contractor in a trade that requires licensure, or to represent yourself as one, unless licensed or exempt (Utah Code 58-55-501).
Utah Code 58-55-305 exempts some small repair jobs below a set contract value, but even on those, plumbing and electrical system work must be done by licensed plumbing or electrical contractors (Utah Code 58-55-305). Drying equipment alone may not need a license; rebuilding walls, plumbing and wiring generally does.
Checks
Three things to verify
The license
Look the company up on the DOPL license lookup, or call DOPL at 801-530-6628.
The number on request
Utah rule R156-55a-501 treats failing to provide a license number on request, while doing construction work, as unprofessional conduct (rule text).
Insurance and bonding
Salt Lake City's permit FAQ advises making sure the contractor has insurance and bonding that protects the property owner (FAQ).
On the call
Questions worth asking
- Do you dry, rebuild, or both?
- What will you remove, and why?
- How do you measure moisture, and will I get the readings?
- Who pulls any permits the repairs need?
- How is the price worked out, and how is extra work handled?
- What does the contract say about payment and cancellation?
- Are you working for me or for my insurer?
- Who do I call if something goes wrong?
Salt Lake Valley
Talk the damage through with a local restoration contractor
A single call reaches an independent contractor that handles water, smoke and mold jobs in Salt Lake City and the surrounding cities. You decide whether to book anything.
Water where it shouldn't be?
The call goes to an independent restoration contractor that takes jobs in the Salt Lake Valley. Describe the source, the rooms involved and when it started.
Call (801) 823-6866Calls may be recorded for quality and billing. How the line is paid: referral disclosure. What is recorded: privacy.