How To Obtain & Maintain Essential Restoration Certifications
To get most restoration certifications and licenses, you need to prove a certain level of training and proficiency. That remains true for IICRC certifications and General Contractors’ licenses, the two types of certifications OCS considers most important for restoration contractors. Here’s everything you need to know about getting and maintaining them.
![A restoration contractor takes an examination to get restoration certifications](https://www.oneclaimsolution.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/iStock-1409878886.jpg)
What Licenses or Certifications are Essential for Restoration Contractors?
Over the last few weeks, we’ve been discussing restoration licenses and certifications, their role in the industry, and how they impact restoration contractors’ claims negotiations with insurance providers. In our recent blog post, we laid out which licenses and certifications OCS considers must-haves for restoration contractors and why. In short, there are two types of licenses and certifications that are essential:
- IICRC Certification: In our view, certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is necessary for every restoration technician, no exceptions. The IICRC provides a variety of certifications, including twelve different certifications for restoration skills. Which certifications you should get should be based on which services your restoration company provides for property owners.
- General Contractor’s License: According to the 2023 State of the Industry Report by C&R Magazine and KnowHow, three out of every four restoration companies in the United States and Canada offer reconstruction services. Some of these companies subcontract out restoration work. But for restoration companies that handle reconstruction work in-house, OCS strongly recommends getting your General Contractor’s license.
IICRC Certification
How to Get IICRC Restoration Certification
Here is how you can become IICRC certified in a restoration skill:
- Go to the IICRC site and browse the restoration certifications they offer. Select the certification you would like to get.
- Choose a course using the class locator tool. The IICRC offers both broadcast and in-person courses for many of their certifications.
- Go to class. Listen attentively and learn new restoration skills from seasoned industry instructors.
- Pass the written skill test at the conclusion of the course.
Once you pass the examination, you are officially certified.
How to Maintain IICRC Certification
To maintain your IICRC certification, you need to do two things:
- Pay your renewal fees annually. You can do this by logging into the IICRC website. Fees vary by certification.
- Take continuing education courses, also known as CECs. Generally, every four years you need to complete fourteen CEC credit hours to remain certified. The IICRC site has a CEC search tool that can help you find continuing education courses.
General Contractor’s License
How to Get Your Contractor’s License
Unlike IICRC certification, General Contractor’s License requirements vary from state to state. Typically, becoming licensed requires some mixture of the following:
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- Education: Some states only require high school diplomas while others require construction education.
- Experience: Most states require a few years of construction experience before you can become licensed.
- Tests: Some states require written or oral examinations on relevant laws, building codes, and safety regulations.
- License Fees: You will typically be required to pay licensing fees. Dollar amounts vary by state.
- Background Check: You may be required to pass a background check.
Research and become familiar with the license requirements in your state.
How to Maintain Your General Contractor’s License
Again, the requirements for maintaining a General Contractor’s license vary by state. Generally, you will need to renew every one to three years and pay a renewal fee. In some states, there are also continuing education requirements. Research what is necessary to maintain your license where you live.
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