Nicole and Josh Smith own and operate their 1-800 WATER DAMAGE franchise in Southeast Tulsa, Oklahoma. Twelve years ago, Nicole met Josh at one of the properties she managed during one of the worst freezing seasons Oklahoma has ever seen. By Nancy E. Williams
Nicole and Josh Smith own and operate their 1-800 WATER DAMAGE franchise in Southeast Tulsa, Oklahoma. Twelve years ago, Nicole met Josh at one of the properties she managed during one of the worst freezing seasons Oklahoma has ever seen. “He came in, saved the day and ended up handling the restoration of my entire Oklahoma portfolio that experienced severe water losses over that next week,” said Nicole. The duo subsequently married and now have five children.
Josh is a former Air Force airman and has a servant’s heart, always wanting to help others first. With Josh’s 20-plus years in restoration and Nicole’s 13 years in commercial real estate, they had a vision for better serving their community in the restoration field. “We had plenty of experience in what other companies were doing wrong and had a passion to start our own business and knew how to do it right,” Nicole said.
Community is the backbone of the Smiths’ business model. They are actively engaged in their community, consistently serving others before themselves. Nicole currently sits on the leadership council for the chamber of commerce and is an ambassador working to create new business and philanthropic opportunities within the community. She also serves as event chairperson and holds a seat on the government affairs committee, identifying ways to protect, serve and grow small businesses from a legislative point at the Oklahoma State Capitol and U.S. Capitol.
“Josh and I are full believers that serving our community is the No. 1 most important aspect to having a successful business. Therefore, we created the nonprofit Heart Locker,” she said. The organization provides immediate needs, including toiletries, clothing, bedding, and infant and toddler essentials, to not only customers but also anyone who has experienced a catastrophic loss caused by weather, water, or fire.
“If we don’t have it, we will get it,” Nicole added. “The idea is to get the individual or family everything they could need in the first 24 to 48 hours after the tragedy, when they are still trying to comprehend what just happened and not have to worry about what they are going to wear tomorrow.”
Nancy E. Williams
Contact: 1800waterdamagefranchise.com