In February 2019, Tod and Joanne Sandberg opened their 1-800 WATER DAMAGE® franchise in the Seattle area, with territories in Tacoma and Olympia, Washington. Unlike some couples who must adjust to a new business with a life partner, the Sandbergs had years of experience. By Nancy E. Williams
In February 2019, Tod and Joanne Sandberg opened their 1-800 WATER DAMAGE® franchise in the Seattle area, with territories in Tacoma and Olympia, Washington. Unlike some couples who must adjust to a new business with a life partner, the Sandbergs had years of experience.
“I have owned another home-services franchise since 1997, and shortly after Tod and I married, I asked him to leave his full-time job at the lumber mill and come join me in running the business,” shared Joanne.
The husband-and-wife team quickly learned the key to running a successful business. “We understand each of our roles. Joanne handles the administrative, marketing, financial and office-related work, while I handle logistics, hiring, training, vehicles and technical jobs. Having distinct roles gives us boundaries but allows us to support each other with no confusion on who has the lead,” Tod said.
It also helps having 1-800 WATER DAMAGE’s support, which keeps the Sandbergs’ operations running smoothly. “The BELFOR Franchise Group is very family-oriented. You don’t feel like you’re owned by a big corporation – it just feels like family,” explained Tod.
Entrepreneur Magazine recently ranked 1-800 WATER DAMAGE as one of the fast-growing franchises in 2022, and the couple sees why. “This business has changed our lives. We love the industry. We love that we have the support of a large brand behind us. The training, coaching and learning opportunities are great – I’m not sure if any other franchisor has a better program. This brand is exciting, on the move and fast-growing. The energy is good for success,” Joanne said.
After years of running successful businesses as a team, the Sandbergs have advice for other couples. “Lose the ego,” Joanne said. “Both people have to realize that the other person is just as important to the business as you are.”
“Always communicate,” Tod added. “Even when we disagree, we’re forced to talk things through and work it out.”
Nancy E. Williams