Alright folks, let me walk you through my messy adventure last month when storm damage wrecked my Denton garage. Needed certified cleanup pros ASAP - here's exactly how I hunted 'em down.

Step 1: I Yanked Out My Phone Immediately

Grabbed my soggy notebook and started scribbling damage details while everything was still fresh. Took pics of the waterlogged walls and mildew spots too. Didn't wanna forget nothing when explaining to companies later.

Step 2: Binged "Denton Disaster Cleanup" Like Crazy

Hopped online and googled every combo possible: "certified water damage Denton", "storm cleanup licensed Texas". Skimmed past those shady ads and focused on local business directories instead.

Step 3: Became A Certification Detective

Checked every single company's website for legit badges. Zeroed in on IICRC certificates - that fancy Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification thing. If they didn't flash that logo? Instant skip.

Step 4: Phones Blowing Up For Days

Called six different crews back-to-back. My script:

- "Show me your Texas mold removal license number"

- "Got insurance for workers?"

- "Can I see recent Denton job photos?"

Nixed three outfits when they got squirrely answering.

Step 5: Dodged The Scammers & Signed

That "we need cash upfront" dude? Blocked. The no-contract guys? Ghosted. Chose a crew that emailed me their full credentials BEFORE meeting. Watched 'em haul industrial dryers into my garage like pros.

Holler if you need the company name I picked - they turned my swamp garage back into human territory. Just remember: certs > smooth talkers every dang time.