
When disaster strikes, property owners often face a crucial decision: who should oversee the recovery? While both disaster restoration companies and general contractors can perform construction work, the skills, certifications, and equipment required for effective restoration are vastly different. Understanding these differences can help homeowners and businesses in Wixom, MI, choose the right professionals to restore their property safely and efficiently.
Incore Restoration Group are skilled qualified disaster restoration experts. Call 866-685-0009 today to learn more about our restoration services.
Disaster Restoration vs. General Contracting
The Purpose of Disaster Restoration
Disaster restoration focuses on emergency response, stabilization, and specialized cleanup after damage from fire, flood, mold, or storms. The goal is not just to rebuild what was destroyed, but to stop ongoing damage, remove contaminants, and return a building to pre-loss condition. This work requires unique expertise, advanced drying systems, and strict adherence to safety and health standards.
Incore Restoration Group specializes in this type of work. Their teams arrive promptly with industrial-grade equipment designed to extract water, dehumidify spaces, and remove smoke or mold safely. Unlike general contractors, who typically start after the environment is already safe and dry, restoration professionals step in immediately to mitigate damage and prevent secondary problems such as structural rot or microbial growth.
How General Contractors Differ
General contractors excel at planned renovations and new construction projects. They coordinate trades like carpenters, roofers, and electricians to bring a building design to life. However, they usually do not manage biohazard cleanup, fire residue removal, or insurance documentation related to disaster recovery.
After a property is stabilized and cleared by a restoration team, a general contractor may become involved to rebuild or remodel damaged structures. The best outcomes often come when restoration and contracting professionals collaborate. The restoration crew ensures the property is safe, dry, and ready, while contractors handle aesthetic and structural repairs.
Timing and Equipment Matter
Disaster restoration is a race against time. Within hours of a flood or fire, surfaces can begin to deteriorate, odors can set in, and health hazards may develop. Professional restoration companies use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to assess and eliminate hidden damage. These advanced tools are rarely part of a general contractor’s toolkit.
Incore Restoration Group employs IICRC-certified technicians who follow industry-approved standards for water extraction, mold remediation, and smoke cleanup. This expertise ensures every step is documented and performed to meet insurance and safety requirements, providing peace of mind during a stressful time.

Insurance Coordination and Documentation
Another major difference lies in the ability to navigate insurance claims. Restoration professionals are trained to document losses thoroughly and communicate directly with insurance adjusters. They know what evidence is required for coverage approval and can help property owners avoid common delays or denials.
General contractors, by contrast, are not typically equipped to manage these details. Their role begins once the insurance process is underway and the site is ready for reconstruction.
When to Call a Disaster Restoration Company
If your property experiences water damage, fire, storm impact, or mold contamination, your first call should be to a certified disaster restoration company. Acting quickly can make the difference between a smooth recovery and extensive, costly repairs. Once the restoration phase is complete, you can then involve a general contractor for long-term repairs, remodeling, or upgrades.
Disaster Restoration Experts.
From Wixom to Novi, Livonia, Ann Arbor, and Farmington Hills, Incore Restoration Group provides fast, professional disaster restoration services that help residential and commercial clients recover with confidence. Whether you are dealing with flood damage in a warehouse or smoke cleanup in a family home, their team has the training, technology, and compassion to make the process seamless.
If your Michigan property has been affected by disaster, contact Incore Restoration Group today at 866-685-0009 for expert emergency response and complete disaster restoration. Serving Wixom, MI, and surrounding communities including Novi, Brighton, and South Lyon.
FAQ
What types of disasters require professional restoration?
Water, fire, smoke, mold, and storm damage all benefit from professional restoration. Each requires specific cleaning methods and safety measures to prevent further damage.
How quickly should I contact a restoration company after damage occurs?
Immediately. Acting within the first 24 hours can prevent mold growth, structural deterioration, and higher repair costs.
Can Incore Restoration Group help with insurance claims?
Yes. Their experienced team provides documentation, photos, and communication support to simplify your claim and ensure you receive fair coverage.
