Running a property damage restoration business presents unique challenges, from handling emergencies and coordinating repairs to managing a team of skilled professionals. In the midst of these responsibilities, it’s crucial not to overlook the significance of financial planning. Maintaining a well-funded business is vital not only for survival but also for achieving growth and stability in the long run.
The restoration industry faces specific hurdles when it comes to managing cash flow effectively. Understanding these challenges is essential for implementing a successful financial plan. Let’s explore some common obstacles encountered by property damage restoration businesses:
Property damage can occur at any time, but certain seasons, like winter storms or hurricane seasons, tend to bring a higher volume of work for restoration companies. Conversely, other times of the year may experience slower periods, leading to reduced income. Balancing cash flow during these fluctuations poses a significant challenge, as businesses must ensure they have sufficient funds to cover expenses and retain skilled staff during slower periods.
“So then as you’re billing, you can maintain a higher amount in your account to help with the slow months,” said Jeremy Traasdahl, Co-owner of One Claim Solution. “That’s why it’s so important to continuously make sure you’re on top of your bills so that your numbers are telling you what to do and how to handle the next season or the next year.”
Conversely, not keeping track of billing data can negatively impact your business.
“It’s crucially important to make sure that your data is good because if you’re not plugging it in, if you’re not successfully going through the same process month after month, you can make bad decisions,” Jeremy said.
Property damage restoration businesses often rely on insurance claims to receive payment for their services. Unfortunately, the claims process can be lengthy and complex, resulting in delays in obtaining funds. The gap between completing a restoration project and receiving payment can strain a business’s cash flow, particularly when multiple projects are pending reimbursement from insurance companies.
Establish a clear process for handling insurance claims. One of the ways recommended here at OCS is using software to keep track of documents, claims, and client information.
“The software helps a lot with predicting the amount of work that contractors have. At OCS, we have the ability to see the number of claims a contractor sent and costs in a certain month,” said Jeremy. “Say May, June and July are really busy, that will help them make educated decisions in regards to staffing and accounts receivable.”
Restoring properties to their pre-damaged state requires specialized equipment, tools, and materials. Property damage restoration businesses must invest in these resources, which can be costly. Managing inventory and equipment costs, including regular maintenance and replacements, is crucial but can strain cash flow if not adequately planned for.
Regularly assess your inventory and equipment needs. Implement inventory management systems to track stock levels and ensure efficient utilization. Consider exploring equipment rental options for specialized tools or collaborating with suppliers to negotiate favorable terms. Additionally, establish a maintenance schedule to prolong the lifespan of your equipment and minimize unexpected repair costs.
Financial planning and keeping your property damage restoration business well-funded are paramount to achieving long-term success. By recognizing the impact of seasonal fluctuations, navigating through lengthy insurance claim processes, and effectively managing inventory and equipment costs, you can position your business for success. To learn more about our proprietary software that aids with financial planning, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.