Leading with empathy, expertise and efficiency in the face of disaster

RCS Influencer Lee Lipniski says that when disaster strikes, people need more than a contractor; they need someone they can trust.

Weather can be super unpredictable; one day it’s blue skies, the next it’s hail or high winds. Weather-related disasters don’t wait for a convenient time, and as contractors, we have a responsibility not only to respond quickly but to do so with compassion, preparedness and professionalism. 

The key to responding effectively starts well before the storm hits. Preparation is everything. At Levello, we keep our systems organized, our crews trained and our suppliers close. We maintain strong relationships with vendors and ensure we have backup sources for materials; especially roofing, siding and gutters so we’re not scrambling when demand spikes. Building those relationships ahead of time allows us to move quickly when our community needs us most. 

It’s also critical to have a solid communication plan. When a disaster strikes, homeowners are overwhelmed. They need someone who can provide clear, honest answers. That’s where we show up; not just as contractors, but as guides through a stressful situation. We make it a point to reach out to our past customers, referral partners and neighborhoods we serve to let them know we’re here, we’re local and we’re ready to help. It’s not about chasing storms; it’s about serving the community we live in with integrity. 

We also rely heavily on technology to stay agile. Digital project tracking, drone inspections when necessary and fast document processing all help us scale our support without losing our personal touch. Leveraging tech and artificial intelligence (ai) allows us to streamline the process for our customers while keeping our internal operations smooth, even under pressure. 

Another major piece is being insurance-literate. My background in insurance gives us a unique edge. We understand the claims process inside and out, which allows us to advocate for our clients and make sure they’re getting the coverage they deserve without adding more confusion to an already stressful experience. Per the National Centers for Environmental Information, between the years of 1980 and 2024, there were 76 confirmed weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each to affect Colorado. Our community is not stranger to insurance claims, but every one of them is different and therefore needs a personalized, thoughtful approach. No two homes, families, or situations are exactly alike, which is why it’s so important for contractors and restoration professionals to take the time to understand each homeowner’s unique needs and guide them through the process with transparency, care and expertise. 

Ultimately, when disaster strikes, people need more than a contractor; they need someone they can trust. We prepare in advance so that when our phones start ringing, we’re not just reacting; we’re leading with empathy, expertise and efficiency. That’s how we support our community and meet market demand; not just by fixing homes, but by restoring peace of mind.