1-800 WATER DAMAGE is a rapidly growing property-restoration franchise, and there are many reasons why. The brand has access to an extensive network of support and the largest fleet of vehicles and equipment in the industry thanks to its parent company BELFOR, the largest restoration company in the world. By Brianna Bohn
1-800 WATER DAMAGE is a rapidly growing property-restoration franchise, and there are many reasons why. The brand has access to an extensive network of support and the largest fleet of vehicles and equipment in the industry thanks to its parent company BELFOR, the largest restoration company in the world.
As one of the fastest-growing franchises in the U.S. and Canada, according to Entrepreneur magazine, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE is ideal for franchisees who find success and satisfaction in life through helping people. Recently, a third-party review organization concluded that, over the past 12 months, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE has had the highest customer satisfaction scores in the restoration industry.
Ken Osness, vice president of franchise development, explained why the brand is so reputable among franchisees. “The level of knowledge, training, and experience within our group is unsurpassed. Whenever a franchise owner needs additional support, tools, or equipment – no matter where they are in the country – we can get them what they need in 24 hours or less. If they find a project too large to handle, franchisees can call a local BELFOR office for assistance. No other brand in the restoration industry has a big brother like BELFOR. As a result, our franchisees never have to turn down the opportunity to work on any size project,” Osness said.
Aside from the instant credibility the BELFOR name provides, an additional benefit is the star-studded network of sister brands within the BEFLOR Franchise Group. “We have 10 service franchise brands with over 4,000 locations in 55 countries around the world,” Osness said. He explained how common it is for 1-800 WATER DAMAGE to refer work to sister companies, like Blue Kangaroo Packoutz, which restores personal belongings after water or fire damage, when further restoration assistance is needed.
“Additionally, a significant portion of franchisee revenue comes from insurance-industry relationships we have established for them. These national accounts have been growing rapidly, as we have now expanded our footprint into the majority of states across the country,” Osness said.
Over the last two years, the brand has added over 100 locations, and its overall system-wide revenue has increased by over 60%. In the last three years, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE has had a growth rate of 136%.
As a result of BELFOR’s presence around the globe, franchisees have the opportunity to participate in cleanup and restoration efforts across the U.S. and internationally. Franchise owners have been present during every major hurricane to hit the U.S. in recent years, in Texas during the big freeze, in southeast Asia after tsunamis, and in Japan when cruise ships were hindered by COVID-19.
Osness understands how big of a decision it is to invest in a franchise, and he shared a few suggestions for those who are starting the selection process. “Look for a personally rewarding business – one you are excited to be a part of every day. Be cautious when considering trendy franchise opportunities. Pick a business that will endure the test of time, instead of one that can be here today and gone tomorrow,” he said.
Bringing almost two decades of business-management experience to the table, Osness knows a thing or two about franchise growth and success. 1-800 WATER DAMAGE hasn’t missed a beat throughout the pandemic, growing more than double in size since 2020 and staying open to help customers during the most vulnerable points in their lives.
Osness also wants prospective franchisees to know they can receive financial support, even during this tumultuous economic climate. “We can get our franchisees through the complete funding process in seven days or less,” he said. “We offer financing on up to 100% of the total investment, and for some candidates we can offer zero-down and zero percent interest in the first year.”
BELFOR also extends a 20% discount on the franchise fee for active military or veterans.
1-800 WATER DAMAGE provides everything needed to build a great business – just add water!
Brianna Bohn