My basement was flooded by water from the (under the street) storm sewer, which backed up through a drain pipe between the street and basement floor, after we received 6" of rain in 24 hours. The water rose to 6" in the basement. The basement was mostly finished (except for the utility room) with painted panel walls and vinyl flooring and furnished as a family entertainment room (big screen TV, etc) and guest bedroom. There were many homes in the area affected by flooding. <br /> <br />My home owner's insurance covers "storm sewer backups", so I called my insurance agent who gave me a list of companies to call. All were very busy and said they couldn't come for a week, except one: Advantage Services, LLC in Paris. My agent knew about this company and said it was highly recommended by those she knew who had used them. <br /> <br />From what the company's "senior partner" told me, he's had many years of experience in the flood damage restoration business, including management in a large company. He had a franchise of a large company at one time, but now is fully independent. His son is now "head" of the company, but dad is his "right hand man". <br /> <br />These two came out on a Sunday night (48 hours after the start of the flood) for an initial visit to determine what was needed. By then, the 6" of water had gone down leaving a wet mess. Over the next 10 days, they tore out all of the paneling, some of the flooring, removed damaged furniture and carpeting on the steps, brought in their equipment to dehumidify and dry out the basement, and applied anti-microbial spray, all standard services in such a situation. <br /> <br />I was very impressed by their knowledge, experience, professionalism, and manner. Mostly I was impressed with how they explained everything they did, giving reasons, pros/cons, etc. They also didn't charge me for several small things which they could have charged me for (even though its covered by insurance). For example: they charge per day for use of their dehumidifying equipment and fans. My home, being older (built 1957) doesn't have high amp electricity in most of the basement. They could not turn their equipment on HIGH because it would throw the electrical breakers. Which meant they had to turn it on MED and leave it for a couple of extra days to finish the job. They didn't charge me for the extra days. Another example: the carpeting on the steps leading down to the basement needed to be replaced before the flood. It didn't get wet, except for the bottom landing, and so technically wasn't covered. I asked and they tore off all the carpeting at no extra charge. Of the 5 companies I did contact, they were the only ones who did not insist on pre-payment of my $500 insurance deductible...they are going to wait for a check from the insurance company. <br /> <br />I could add so much more, but will end with "I HIGHLY recommend this company!" I am very pleased with their service, and am glad to be the first to rate them on Angie's List. <br />