In a competitive industry such as residential and commercial restoration, it’s often difficult to stand out. New restoration companies seem to pop up overnight, and some have a difficult time deciding which one will best serve their needs. After all, when your home or commercial building suffers from a natural disaster, you want the best professionals on the job. And that’s what CORE helps to ensure.
What is CORE?
Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the CORE Group was founded on the belief that restoration should be more than just a service. CORE’s drive is to unite the industry’s best restoration companies under one network and provide them with top-tier training, marketing, and networking opportunities. “We provide the infrastructure, resources, and support that allow contractors and businesses to focus on what matters most: rebuilding communities and restoring lives,” says Brian Ellingwood, chief marketing officer at CORE.
Restoration companies must apply to become a member of CORE, but not all companies qualify. Only independent companies—not franchises—are allowed to apply. Each potential member organization is strictly vetted for quality assurance and must meet CORE’s rigorous credentialing standards. Today, CORE is a nationally recognized brand in property restoration that operates a network of signature and elite members spanning 98% of the United States.
The Benefits of CORE
When you hire a restoration company within the CORE network, you’ll engage with professionals that operate with the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality, and integrity. CORE members are also highly trained through CORE University, an education and training platform that provides extensive training and certification programs to industry professionals. With more than 250 courses, CORE University helps restoration professionals keep their skills sharp while staying on top of the latest trends in home and commercial restoration.
Responding to Natural Disasters
As independent restoration companies across the nation, members of CORE can collaborate on larger projects and even get involved in areas outside their own local area. “When the southern California wildfires destroyed more than 18,000 homes and structures, we fielded claims and helped to connect restoration companies with homeowners and business owners in need of help,” says Brian.
When the devasting wildfires burned over 57,000 acres in January 2025, the team at CORE jumped into action. They developed a Southern California Wildfire Response FAQ to guide restoration companies in the areas of licensing, certifications, hazardous waste disposal, labor considerations, and worker safety protocols.
Likewise, when hurricanes Helene and Milton hit, CORE mobilized local and national restoration companies to help. At its peak, Helene was a Category 4 storm with winds up to 156 mph. With extensive water and property damage to thousands of homes and businesses, the states hardest hit—from Florida to North Carolina—were aided by CORE’s national network of partners.
Restorations by Highmark – A CORE Elite Member
For the past five years, Restorations by Highmark has been a CORE Elite member. In fact, we’re the only commercial property and home restoration company in Minnesota to be recognized as a member of CORE Elite. We’re also the preferred contractor for over 70 insurance companies. Whether you need residential restoration services or commercial restoration services, contact Restorations by Highmark. We offer 24/7 emergency response to home and business owners located in the Twin Cities.
24/7 Emergency Services
If your home receives water, fire, or storm damage, call us right away. Our 24/7 response team can be at your home within the hour if you live in the Twin Cities metro.
