Michelle Blevins

This month, the Restoration Industry Association celebrates 70 years of leadership in an ever-growing, ever-evolving, and ever-changing industry. Like the restoration world, the association has changed names, leaders, and focuses a number of times over the years. But at its core, the RIA is the same today as it was when it was founded in 1946: an organization focused on serving other people.

Does that quote sound familiar? I think nearly everyone in the restoration industry can attest it was hard work that got them to where they are today. Or, they’re working hard now with their eyes fixed firmly on the prize – whether that be ownership, management, or… retirement.

The use of thermal imaging has become pretty common in the restoration industry. Detecting a temperature difference behind a wall can save big bucks and time by avoiding the need for demolition, and give remediators an early idea where the source of a water problem may lie.

It's 4 a.m. and your phone rings. A homeowner awoke to water in their basement and needs your help. Imagine if in this moment, you could take a real-time look at the damage, before you even get on site. Librestream’s Onsight live virtual presence software makes it possible.

Some markets in the U.S. are feeling a little saturated by restoration companies. It’s true, only the best and strongest survive – and perhaps in some capacity, the most creative. 

No matter the sector of the restoration industry you work in, it’s likely you meet people on their very worst day, almost every day. Any property loss is devastating for the families impacted, but what about when there’s another kind of loss – of human life – within a space.