Increasing Disasters from Climate Change Create Talent Shortage in Restoration Industry
Climate change is not just a buzzword; it’s a reality that impacts every aspect of our lives. The world is experiencing an unprecedented surge in natural disasters, from devastating hurricanes to rampant wildfires and catastrophic floods. As the planet warms, these events are becoming more frequent and severe. This alarming trend has sent shockwaves through various industries, particularly the disaster restoration sector. With the rising tide of calamities comes an urgent need for skilled professionals who can respond effectively and restore normalcy in affected communities.
But here’s where the crisis deepens: there’s a significant talent shortage within this industry. While demand skyrockets due to increasing disasters fueled by global warming, finding qualified individuals to tackle these challenges has become increasingly difficult.
Let’s dive into how climate change is reshaping our world and what it means for disaster restoration services—and why addressing this talent gap is essential for all of us moving forward.
Impact of Climate Change. Increased Frequency and Severity of Natural Disasters

Climate change is dramatically altering the disaster landscape.
Hurricanes and Storms:
– The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that the number of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes has increased by 25% since the 1980s.
– In 2023, there were 21 named storms in the Atlantic hurricane season, causing extensive damage across coastal regions.
Floods:
- According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding has caused an average of $17 billion in damages annually over the past decade.
– Heavy rainfall events, which lead to flooding, have increased by 30% in the last 50 years.
Wildfires:
- The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) data shows that the number of large wildfires (over 100,000 acres) has tripled since the 1980s.
- In 2023, wildfires burned over 10 million acres in the United States, causing billions in damages.
Economic Impact
- Natural disasters in 2022 caused $145 billion in damages in the United States, as per NOAA. This reflects a trend of increasing financial burden on communities and the restoration industry.
Infrastructure Strain
- The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) projects that the U.S. could incur $4 trillion in costs by 2025 due to deteriorating infrastructure vulnerable to climate- related disasters.
Insurance Challenges
- The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that insurance premiums for disaster coverage have increased by 15% annually over the past five years. Stricter underwriting standards make it harder for individuals and businesses to secure affordable insurance.

With such an increase in disasters comes an escalating demand for disaster restoration services. Companies are struggling to keep pace with urgent needs while facing a talent shortage that hampers their response capabilities.
Currently, about 66% of disaster restoration firms report difficulty hiring skilled workers. This gap not only affects recovery efforts but also places immense pressure on existing staff members who are already stretched thin.
How can RVP help you with hiring skilled professionals?
Finding skilled professionals in the disaster restoration field can feel overwhelming. With the current talent shortage, it’s essential to have a team that not only possesses expertise but also stays committed to your organization.
RVP specializes in providing disaster restoration companies with experienced professionals locally and internationally.
As businesses face new challenges and shifting demands, geographical boundaries will not restrict your quest for the perfect candidate. By having access to a local and a global talent pool, you ensure access to the most qualified individuals, regardless of their location.
Benefits from hiring with RVP:
- Highly skilled professionals
- High Retention rate
- Long term commitment
Conclusion
Climate change continues to reshape our environment and the way we live. As the frequency of these events rises, so does the demand for skilled professionals in this crucial industry.
At RVP, our team has a deep understanding of the disaster restoration industry’s unique needs and challenges, allowing us to provide tailored solutions.
RVP stands out due to our holistic approach to talent acquisition locally and internationally and our deep expertise in the disaster restoration industry.