Certification increases sales

Contractors and restorers can increase sales by gaining an internationally-recognised qualification in dealing with water damage, according to the National Flood School.

It is running a three-day Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Water Restoration Technician course (Jan 10-12).

At the end of the programme, successful students gain the IICRC's Water Restoration Technician qualification - evidence of extensive specialised knowledge that will help builders, contractors and restorers bring in more business.

The course focuses on the theory behind the practice, concentrating largely on psychrometry - the 'science of drying.' Lectures, discussions and video are used to cover topics such as the latest equipment, safety, water extraction procedures, structural drying, chemicals and dealing with sewage.

Attendees will also learn everything they need to deal with water damage claims.

"Water damage costs the insurance industry billions of pounds, and the volume of claims means there is high demand for contractors," says Chris Netherton, MD of the National Flood School."Using a restorer with an internationallyrecognised IICRC Water Restoration Technician qualification saves the industry money because properties are dried out more quickly and effectively and it helps improve customer service."