Independent Restoration Companies vs. Insurance Company Vendors - who To Use After a Loss ? The first action after an emergency any homeowner should take is to contact a restoration company. The next would be to contact your insurance carrier. Contrary to popular belief, mitigating the loss whether it is fire, flood or sewer back up, it is the sole responsibility of the insured. The insured and the restoration company are the first line of defense in preventing further damage from Continue Reading ...