The Future of Restoration Services

Q & A With Phil DePaul
of United Water Restoration Group of Long Island

Please tell us about your background:
Since my youth anyone could tell you I was an independent thinker with big visions and strong passions to do big things. My first true love was professional wrestling, so whether it was my 1,000+ VHS video tape collection or my backyard wrestling TV show with my high school buddies. Perhaps the decision of NOT cashing in my parents gift of enrollment in a local wrestling school led me on my current path... After growing up in the wholesale distribution business (plumbing, heating, HVAC supply) and leading the company from 2 small Staten Island stores to 5 tri-state locations and 70+ employees over 14 years, I was ready for something different. In 2015 I joined the Hurricane Sandy relief effort with the NYS Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery to help fellow Long Islanders build back from the damage, both mental and physical, caused by that 100 year storm. With the project winding down I found myself searching for somewhere else I could add value with meaningful service to society.

2. What made you decide to franchise? And why UWRG?
Entrepreneurship has been in blood ever since I can remember. There has never been a doubt I’d be running my own business someday, and I patiently advanced my career in preparation for the right time. As a business leader without an original business idea, I sought out the assistance of a franchise consultant who helped me understand myself and the opportunities that exist in franchises. Aside from the powerful visuals of the UWRG branding and vehicles, I remember being captivated by the prospect of doing dirty work for people in need - with the added benefit of helping them navigate the complicated world of property insurance.

3. Can you tell us about any early challenges?
Isn’t it always about money! The capital investment required to launch a full-service restoration company is significant, so that was the biggest hurdle. Additionally, my first child was born in September of 2019, which made the process EXTRA special! Other than that, it’s the time and energy needed for the training, certification, and licensing in this industry. Anyone who rushes into this business will not be a highly-effective problem solver.

4. What has been the biggest surprise so far?
Assembling a true all-star team of technicians is no easy task, but I’ve been so fortunate to find and attract some great pros who are even better people. I’m happy

5. What has been the biggest business mistake so far & what did you learn from it?
Oh man, I make so many mistakes it’s hard to keep track! It’s essential to learn from every poor decision so you only make each once - preferably small ones. This industry is so detail-oriented so each project teaches you something new. But I’d say the biggest lesson is that it takes a special kind of team player to be on-call 24/7 for emergency response so chemistry in the locker room is paramount to any one individual’s skills.

6. What is next for United Water Restoration Group of Long Island?
2020 is a big year for UWRG LI as we have our eyes set on spreading the word across Long Island as your home’s #1 problem-solving solution providers. We recently added HVAC Air Duct Cleaning services to our offering after client demand and our desire to be more proactive in the home maintenance industry. We don’t just want to wait for disasters to happen, we want to help prevent them!

For More information regarding United Water Restoration Group of Long Island, please visit their website at: https://uwrgislandiany.com/

United Water Restoration Group of Long Island - 74 Bridge Road Islandia, NY 11749