When disaster strikes, the decisions made before the loss can have a major impact on what happens next. In this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, Kenneth Roberts, Regional Sales Manager for BMS CAT’s South Region, shares lessons from more than 13 years in the restoration industry and explains why preparedness, communication, and transparency are critical to an effective response.

Roberts began his restoration career working on a demolition crew, giving him firsthand experience with the work that goes into helping properties recover after fire, water, and other major losses. Today, he works alongside BMS CAT teams and customers across Texas, Louisiana, and Tennessee to build relationships and prepare organizations before an emergency occurs.

A major theme of the conversation is the importance of planning before disaster strikes. Roberts discusses why organizations should understand their properties, identify their most critical assets, establish response protocols, and determine who needs to be involved in communication before an event happens. That preparation becomes especially important during hurricanes and other area-wide disasters, when resources and response times can be under pressure.

Roberts also explains BMS CAT’s approach to communication throughout a restoration project, including daily updates that outline what happened that day and what is expected next.

For facility and organizational leaders, the takeaway is simple: don’t wait for an emergency to start planning. Strong relationships, clear expectations, and open communication can help teams respond faster and navigate the recovery process with greater confidence.