The Hidden Risks of Hiring Unqualified Restoration Contractors

Why Proper Certification, Compliance, and Safety Standards Matter for Your Home or business, and Health

1. Introduction: Why This Conversation Matters

Across Manitoba, more and more homeowners are turning to restoration companies for help with asbestos concerns, mould problems, and water or fire damage. The demand for these services has grown quickly, and with it, the number of new contractors offering them. While greater availability might seem like a benefit, it has also created an environment where not every provider is equally qualified or equipped to perform the work safely.

Restoration and environmental remediation are not ordinary home improvement tasks. They involve potential health hazards, regulated materials, and complex safety standards that must be followed to protect occupants, workers, and the property itself. Unfortunately, some unqualified restoration contractors may enter the market without the required certifications, training, or understanding of local regulations. In some cases, they may not even realize they’re operating outside proper standards.

This article isn’t about pointing fingers, it’s about education. Homeowners and property managers deserve to understand what proper restoration work should look like, what certifications matter, and how to identify a qualified contractor. By knowing what to look for, you can ensure your project is done safely, legally, and effectively, the first time.

Remediation and restoration work must be carried out in accordance with local government regulations, IICRC standards, and established industry best practices. When companies fail to follow these mandatory requirements or neglect to properly train and certify their staff, they place both your health and your property at serious risk.

2. Understanding What “Qualified” Really Means

When it comes to restoration work, the term “qualified” isn’t a marketing label, it’s a matter of law, training, and safety. Certified restoration professionals are required to meet specific standards set by governing bodies such as Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) and industry organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

A qualified restoration contractor:

• Holds certifications for the specific type of work being performed (e.g., asbestos abatement, mould remediation, water damage restoration, fire damage restoration).

• Follows written safety procedures that comply with Manitoba’s WSH Regulation M.R. 217/2006, including Part 37 for asbestos and designated substances.

• Uses proper protective equipment, containment systems, HEPA filtration, and waste handling methods.

• Provides clients with written documentation, such as inspection reports, testing results, and clearance confirmations, where required, that verify the work was completed safely and properly. (asbestos, mould, water and fire projects, including testing and remediation, should have written documentation provided)

Unqualified operators, by contrast, may not follow these requirements, even if unintentionally. The issue isn’t always bad intent, sometimes it’s a lack of awareness or training. That’s why it’s so important for homeowners to know what “qualified” looks like and to feel empowered to ask the right questions before hiring anyone for restoration work.

3. What Proper Restoration Work Should Include

Every restoration service, whether it involves asbestos, mould, or water damage, should follow an established process that prioritizes safety, documentation, and transparency. Here’s what you should expect when hiring a qualified contractor:

Asbestos Testing and Abatement: Proper asbestos work starts with a detailed inspection, including the collection of samples by trained personnel. After laboratory analysis, clients should receive a written report (not simply lab results) outlining where asbestos-containing materials were found, what the results mean, and recommendations for safe management or removal. During abatement, containment barriers, negative air pressure, protective clothing and other procedures are mandatory under Manitoba regulations.

Mould Remediation: A thorough mould remediation project begins with identifying the source of moisture, setting up full containment, and running HEPA-filtered negative air machines to prevent cross-contamination. Affected materials are carefully removed, the area is cleaned using antimicrobial solutions, and surfaces are inspected visually and, at times, through air or surface sampling to confirm clearance before re-occupancy.

Water Damage Restoration: Water damage cleanup involves much more than drying visible water. Qualified contractors use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and drying logs to track progress according to IICRC S500 standards. They ensure materials are fully dried, structural components are inspected, and potential secondary issues like mould are addressed.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration: Fire and smoke damage go far beyond what you can see. Soot, ash, and chemical residues can be toxic, corrosive, and easily spread throughout a property if not handled correctly. Proper restoration requires certified technicians trained in IICRC S700 standards who can identify soot types, use specialized cleaning methods, and apply professional deodorization techniques. Without these controls, harmful residues and odours can linger, posing long-term health and safety risks.

Across all service types, the key elements are the same: safety controls, proper documentation, and verification. When these are missing, it’s a sign the work may not meet professional or regulatory standards, and could expose occupants to unnecessary risk.

4. How to Identify Unqualified Restoration Contractors

As a homeowner or property manager, you don’t need to be an expert in restoration work, but knowing how to ask the right questions can protect you from future problems. Before you hire anyone to test, remove, or remediate hazardous materials, take a few minutes to confirm that they’re properly certified and/or compliant with local standards. Manitoba released new asbestos regulations for 2026 with full compliance mandatory by 2028. All asbestos workers must be put into a provincial system proving certification and compliance.

Here are a few simple checks to make before signing any agreement:

• Ask about certification and training: A qualified contractor should be able to provide credentials showing they’ve completed recognized programs, such as IICRC certification or Manitoba-approved asbestos and mould training.

• Verify their understanding of Manitoba regulations: Ask if they follow Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation (M.R. 217/2006), especially Part 37 for asbestos and designated substances. These regulations exist to protect both workers and building occupants.

• Request documentation: Any professional restoration company should provide written reports, lab results, and, where required, post-remediation or air-clearance testing results. If you’re told these aren’t necessary, consider that a warning sign.

• Confirm insurance and WCB coverage: A reputable company carries proper liability insurance for our industry and ensures all workers are covered under WCB Manitoba. Liability insurance for the asbestos and hazard industries is expensive, leading to potentially excluding these services from insurances.

• Discuss containment and cleanup procedures: Ask how they’ll isolate affected areas, control dust, and protect clean spaces. The ability to clearly explain their process shows knowledge and professionalism.

Taking these steps helps you avoid unqualified restoration contractors who might skip vital safety measures, leaving behind hidden contamination or incomplete documentation.

5. The Hidden Risks of Cutting Corners

While a lower quote may seem appealing at first, restoration projects performed without proper certification or procedures can carry hidden costs. These costs often surface long after the job is done, sometimes when you sell your home, make an insurance claim, or discover recurring issues that should have been prevented.

Incomplete asbestos or mould removal can lead to cross-contamination throughout a property, creating new exposure risks and forcing homeowners to pay for a second round of remediation. Missing paperwork, such as clearance certificates or inspection reports, can also delay insurance settlements or raise concerns during future inspections.

Hiring unqualified restoration contractors doesn’t just affect the immediate outcome, it can jeopardize the health of your family, the safety of workers, and the long-term value of your property. Choosing certified professionals ensures that all stages of the project, from testing to final clearance, are completed safely, legally, and properly documented.

6. Relief Restorations’ Commitment to Compliance and Safety

At Relief Restorations, we believe every client deserves confidence that their home or business has been restored safely and thoroughly. Our certified team follows all Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health requirements, local regulations, and IICRC standards for asbestos abatement, mould remediation, and water or fire damage restoration.

Each project begins with a detailed assessment and scope of work outlining the safety measures, equipment, and documentation to be used. Containment systems, negative-air filtration, and PPE are applied according to regulation. Upon completion, clients receive a comprehensive report that includes what was completed, recommendations, compliance details, photos, and, when applicable, lab results or third-party clearance verification.

Our commitment extends beyond compliance, it’s about protecting people, property, and peace of mind. We stand by our values of integrity, quality, and safety, ensuring every project is handled with the professionalism our community expects.

7. Understanding the IICRC and Why Its Certifications Matter

When researching restoration companies, you may often see references to the IICRC, or Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. This organization sets the internationally recognized standards for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries, including water damage restoration, mould remediation, and fire and smoke cleanup.

The IICRC develops comprehensive protocols that ensure work is performed safely, effectively, and in line with scientific and environmental health principles. These standards are constantly updated through input from industry experts, environmental hygienists, and safety professionals, making them the benchmark for proper restoration practices worldwide.

Hiring a contractor with IICRC certification or one that certifies its staff, means you’re working with someone who has received formal training in:

• Safe and compliant work procedures following local and international guidelines.

• Moisture detection and control to prevent mould growth after water damage.

• Proper cleaning and disinfection methods for contaminated materials.

• Documentation and reporting to validate that each step of the job was performed correctly.

• Ethical business practices that emphasize client safety, honesty, and transparency.

In Manitoba, combining IICRC-certified practices with Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) regulatory compliance creates a strong foundation for safe, responsible restoration. It ensures that every project, from testing and containment to drying and clearance verification, meets the highest level of professional and ethical standards.

At Relief Restorations, our lead technicians hold multiple IICRC certifications to ensure every project is completed to these exacting standards. All technicians also go through in-house training and various other certifications. It’s part of our ongoing commitment to quality, safety, and professionalism, values that help protect our clients and maintain the integrity of every home and business we serve.

What Is the IICRC?

(Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification)

The IICRC is an internationally recognized organization that sets the standards for safe, effective restoration and cleaning practices. Its certifications are the industry’s benchmark for professionalism and technical competence.

Why It Matters:

• Ensures technicians are trained in proper safety and cleaning procedures

• Promotes accountability, documentation, and ethical practices

• Provides recognized standards such as IICRC S500 (Water Damage) and S520 (Mould Remediation)

• Aligns with Manitoba WSH regulations to protect workers, occupants, and property integrity

Choosing a company who certifies their staff through the IICRC means your restoration project is handled by professionals who meet the highest industry standards, ensuring safer, compliant, and longer-lasting results.

8. Why Asbestos Training and Certification Matter

Asbestos is one of the most highly regulated hazardous materials in Canada, and for good reason. When disturbed, asbestos fibres can become airborne and remain suspended for long periods, posing severe health risks if inhaled. These fibres have been linked to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because of these dangers, only trained and certified professionals are legally permitted to handle or remove asbestos-containing materials in Manitoba.

Certified asbestos workers complete formal training approved under Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation M.R. 217/2006, Part 37, which covers the safe identification, handling, and removal of asbestos. Training includes proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), containment setup, negative air pressure systems, waste handling, decontamination procedures, and air clearance verification.

When an unqualified restoration contractor performs asbestos-related work without certification, several critical safety and legal procedures are often skipped, such as:

• Hazard assessment and inventory: Certified contractors first identify and document all asbestos-containing materials before any demolition or renovation begins. Untrained contractors may skip this entirely, unknowingly disturbing asbestos.

• Containment setup and air control: Certified professionals construct sealed containment zones with negative air pressure and HEPA filtration to prevent fibres from spreading. Unqualified contractors may simply “mask off” an area or skip containment altogether, contaminating nearby spaces.

• Worker protection and decontamination: Proper PPE, respirators, and multi-stage decontamination procedures are required to protect workers and prevent cross-contamination. Without training, contractors may use inadequate or reused equipment, endangering everyone on site.

• Waste disposal and documentation: Certified companies dispose of asbestos waste at licensed facilities and provide written documentation for regulatory compliance. Those without training may improperly bag or discard materials, creating ongoing health and liability risks.

Beyond safety, certification also protects homeowners and businesses from future issues during property sales, insurance claims, or inspections. A documented asbestos abatement performed by certified professionals provides proof of compliance and reassurance that the work was completed safely and legally.

At Relief Restorations, every asbestos project is handled by trained and certified technicians who follow Manitoba’s strict safety and reporting requirements. Our goal is not just to remove hazardous materials, but to ensure your property is safe, compliant, and fully documented for your protection.

What Certified Asbestos Training Covers

Manitoba-Approved Asbestos Training Includes:

• Identification of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)

• Risk assessment and work classification (Type 1, 2, 3)

• Containment and negative air setup

• Safe removal, cleaning, and HEPA filtration procedures

• PPE use, worker decontamination, and hygiene protocols

• Proper waste packaging, labeling, and disposal

• Air clearance testing and project documentation

Without this training, contractors may skip essential safety controls, putting homeowners, workers, and occupants at unnecessary risk. Always verify certification before hiring anyone for asbestos testing or abatement.

9. Why Mould Remediation Training and Certification Matter

Mould is one of the most common problems found in homes and buildings across Manitoba, often appearing after water leaks, condensation, or flooding. While it may seem like a simple cleanup task, mould remediation involves serious health and safety considerations. When handled improperly, mould spores can spread quickly through the air and contaminate previously unaffected areas, leading to recurring problems and potential health issues.

Certified mould remediation professionals are trained to follow strict protocols established by the IICRC S520 Standard for Professional Mould Remediation and the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation (M.R. 217/2006). This training ensures that remediation is performed safely, thoroughly, and with proper documentation. It also protects both occupants and workers from unnecessary exposure to airborne contaminants and microbial growth.

When unqualified restoration contractors perform mould removal without certification, they often skip crucial steps that ensure safety and long-term results, such as:

• Source identification and moisture control: Certified professionals locate the moisture source before cleaning or removal. Untrained contractors may clean visible mould without addressing the underlying cause, leading to regrowth.

• Containment setup: Proper containment with sealed barriers, negative air machines, and HEPA filtration prevents cross-contamination. Without training, contractors might rely on basic plastic sheeting or often times, we've seen no containment at all.

• Use of PPE and decontamination procedures: Certified technicians use respirators, disposable suits, and dedicated equipment decontamination areas. Unqualified workers may wear inadequate protection, spreading spores on clothing and tools.

• HEPA vacuuming and cleaning techniques: Trained contractors follow step-by-step HEPA vacuuming, damp wiping, and controlled demolition where necessary. Those without certification may overuse biocides, skip HEPA cleaning, or leave spores behind on surfaces.

• Post-remediation verification: A qualified remediation includes visual inspection and often third-party air or surface sampling to confirm clearance. Unqualified providers typically skip this step, leaving uncertainty about whether the mould issue was truly resolved.

Mould remediation certification ensures that every part of the process, from assessment to clearance, follows industry and health standards. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about creating a healthy indoor environment and preventing future contamination.

At Relief Restorations, our certified mould remediation specialists follow Manitoba and IICRC guidelines to ensure each project is handled safely, professionally, and with full transparency. Our goal is to protect your property and your health with proven, evidence-based procedures.

What Certified Mould Remediation Training Covers

Professional Mould Training Includes:

• Building science and moisture control fundamentals

• Fungal ecology and health implications of exposure

• Inspection and sampling protocols

• Containment, negative air, and pressure differentials

• HEPA filtration and cleaning techniques

• Safe material removal and disposal

• PPE use, hygiene, and decontamination

• Post-remediation verification and reporting

Without proper certification, contractors may clean visible mould without containment, skip verification testing, or fail to correct the source of moisture, creating ongoing health risks and costly future repairs.

10. Why Water Damage Restoration Training and Certification Matter

Water damage can happen suddenly, from burst pipes, sump failures, or flooding, but what happens after the water is removed matters even more. Without proper restoration training, lingering moisture can lead to hidden mould growth, structural deterioration, and even microbial contamination within days.

Certified water damage restoration professionals follow the IICRC S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration, which defines the proper steps, documentation, and safety controls required for effective recovery. This standard ensures that drying and decontamination aren’t guesswork, they’re measurable, monitored, and verifiable.

When unqualified restoration contractors handle water damage without certification, several critical procedures are commonly skipped:

• Moisture mapping and category classification: Certified professionals assess the extent and type of water contamination (Category 1, 2, or 3) and track moisture migration using thermal imaging and moisture meters. Unqualified contractors may rely on visual inspection alone, missing hidden saturation.

• Equipment setup and monitoring: Trained technicians strategically position air movers, dehumidifiers, and containment barriers based on calculated drying goals. Untrained crews may overload or under-deploy equipment, resulting in extended drying times or incomplete drying.

• Antimicrobial and safety procedures: Certified professionals evaluate whether sanitization is required and apply safe, approved products. Those without certification may misuse chemicals or skip cleaning entirely.

• Documentation and validation: The IICRC requires detailed drying logs and daily readings to verify progress. Unqualified providers often fail to document or monitor properly, leaving no proof of completion for insurance or liability purposes.

Proper water damage training ensures drying is efficient, thorough, and compliant with industry standards, preventing secondary damage and health concerns down the road.

At Relief Restorations, our certified water damage technicians use advanced diagnostic tools and IICRC-approved procedures to restore properties safely and completely.

What Certified Water Damage Training Covers

IICRC S500 Training Includes:

• Moisture detection, mapping, and documentation

• Water classification (Category 1–3) and material porosity assessment

• Controlled drying strategies and equipment setup

• Environmental controls, containment, and monitoring

• Microbial prevention and sanitization

• Health and safety procedures for contaminated water

• Communication and reporting for insurance documentation

Without certification, contractors may overlook hidden moisture, skip microbial cleaning, or fail to verify drying, allowing mould growth or long-term structural damage to occur unseen.

11. Why Fire and Smoke Damage Training and Certification Matter

Fire and smoke restoration is among the most technically demanding aspects of property recovery. Beyond visible soot and debris, smoke residues and odours can penetrate walls, HVAC systems, and structural materials, leaving behind acidic contamination that continues to corrode surfaces long after the flames are out.

Certified fire and smoke restoration professionals follow the IICRC S700 Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration, which outlines how to clean, neutralize, and document fire-related damage safely and effectively. This training includes chemical residue identification, odour removal methods, and content restoration techniques.

When unqualified restoration contractors take on fire or smoke damage without training, they often miss crucial steps such as:

• Soot and residue identification: Certified technicians test soot types (wet, dry, protein, or fuel oil) to choose the correct cleaning method. Untrained workers may smear soot into surfaces or use abrasive products that worsen staining.

• Odour neutralization and HVAC cleaning: Trained professionals use specialized techniques such as thermal fogging, ozone treatment, or hydroxyl generators. Unqualified contractors may rely on masking sprays that temporarily hide but don’t eliminate odours.

• Content handling and documentation: Properly trained teams perform detailed inventory, cleaning, and pack-out of salvageable contents. Without certification, contents are often discarded unnecessarily or returned with residual contamination.

• Safety and corrosion control: Certified technicians assess structural integrity and neutralize acidic residues to prevent long-term damage. Inexperienced contractors might overlook these issues, leading to further deterioration.

Fire and smoke certification ensures that restoration work addresses both the visible and invisible impacts of fire; safely, scientifically, and thoroughly.

At Relief Restorations, our certified technicians combine IICRC training with proven deodorization and cleaning systems to restore indoor environments and contents safely. Our focus is not just cleanup, but full recovery.

What Certified Fire & Smoke Training Covers

IICRC S700 Training Includes:

• Identification of soot and residue types

• Proper cleaning agents and application methods

• HVAC and duct system decontamination

• Odour elimination (ozone, hydroxyl, thermal fogging)

• Corrosion control and material preservation

• Content inventory, cleaning, and pack-back procedures

• Worker safety and air quality management

• Documentation and verification of restoration results

Without certification, contractors may fail to neutralize smoke odour, spread soot residue, or discard salvageable materials, resulting in incomplete restoration and ongoing property damage.

12. Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions

When dealing with asbestos, mould, fire, or water damage, the quality of the contractor you choose determines the quality of the outcome. While the market may include a range of new and emerging providers, not all operate to the same professional or regulatory standard.

By taking time to verify training, certifications, safety practices, and documentation, you can confidently select a company that values your health and your investment. The difference between a qualified and an unqualified restoration contractor often comes down to more than price, it’s about safety, accountability, and lasting results.

Relief Restorations is proud to provide Manitoba homeowners and businesses with trusted, certified restoration services built on transparency and care. When the unexpected strikes, you deserve assurance that your property is in capable hands, and we’re here to make sure of it.

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Contact Relief Restorations Today

Schedule a mould air test, moisture survey, asbestos testing, remediation, inspection or consultation with our team to ensure your home is protected. Let us help you safeguard your home and restore peace of mind, knowing that you’re in good hands.

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Our Services Include:

Water Damage – Restoration | Content Services | Moisture Surveys

Fire & Smoke Damage – Restorations | Content Services | Odour Removal

Mould – Remediation | Air Testing | Fogging | Inspections

Asbestos – Remediation | Testing | Inventories | Inspections

Non-Structural Demolition Services

Other Services:

Contents Services – Packout | Packback | Cleaning | Restoration | Odour

Ceiling Stipple Removal

Vermiculite Removal

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About Relief Restorations

At Relief Restorations, we specialize in providing comprehensive restoration services, including mould remediation, water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, asbestos removal, light demolition, inspection and testing services across Winnipeg and Manitoba, Canada.

With a focus on safety and quality, our expert team is dedicated to restoring your property and ensuring a healthier living environment. Whether you're a homeowner, business, tenant, landlord, or property manager, you can trust us to handle any restoration or remediation challenge with professionalism and care.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your property.

Please note: The information on this post and website are for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not replace professional inspection or remediation services or offer legal or medical advice.