The formation of the British Damage Management Association (BDMA) marked a milestone in relations between the insurance industry and those who provide recovery and restoration services. The Association establishes and promotes best practise in damage management and related disciplines. Chem-Dry is a proud gold member of the BDMA and has been for the last seven years.

Modern damage management involves highly technical disciplines and the industry is traditionally  intensely competitive. The creation of the BDMA is an indication of the significance damage management practitioners attach to the establishment of uniform standards of care and codes of practise, underpinned by technical and corporate training.

The Association has the support of the Treasury, the Association of British Insurers (ABI), and Chartered Institute of Loss Adjusters (CILA), and its aim of establishing and promoting best practise in damage management and related disciplines is welcomed by Insurers and Loss Adjusters.

Previously, Insurers and Loss Adjusters had no means of judging the competence and expertise of any recovery or restoration contractor they appointed. In the event of problems arising after claims have been settled, poor and inappropriate workmanship can leave Insurers open to litigation leading to significant damage payments. New laws place even more importance on the duty of care issues surrounding the appointment of contractors. The Association responds to the Insurers' need for contractors to work to recognised standards.

The BDMA is working towards the ultimate acheivement of kite mark status, allowing potential customers and the public in general to identify competent individual practitioners and corporate damage management organisations.

The BDMA Mission Statement guarantees:

• To promote and regulate professional standards in the damage management industry for Insurers, Loss Adjusters, the insured and the interested parties.
• To outline structured technical education levels capable of providing the required level of response.
• To promote excellence through education and training.
• To instigate a professional appraisal of competence and compliance where required, offering adjudication and a structured, as well as a workable, complaints procedure.