What Does Your Company Do?
“WoodWatch is an early-warning smart leak detection system that monitors moisture within structural materials (timber, drywall, concrete) and alerts well before damage becomes severe.
The more people I talked to it became very clear this was a widespread problem with no practical solution.”
What Inspired You To Start It?
“The inspiration came about five years ago. A friend in property management told me about a tenant who had called to say “the floor in the bathroom has turned squishy”. It turned out the bath drain had been leaking for a long time without anyone knowing.
The damage was extensive and expensive to fix. The bathroom cost $20,000+ to repair and it was not covered by insurance. He asked if I could come up with an early detection tool, which led to the creation of WoodWatch.”
What Is One Win (big or small) You’re Celebrating Now?
“One big win we are celebrating is the launch of WoodWatch to the public space. Although we launched when people were winding down for Christmas, we secured 10 sales before the holidays!
Currently we are gearing up to trial the system in a large apartment complex where they have been plagued with hidden water leaks.”
What Is One Lesson You Wish You Learned Earlier?
“One lesson I wish I’d learned earlier is to do market research and try to lock in interest before building the thing. As an engineer, I jumped straight into prototyping and getting a working system together well before I’d really engaged with the potential market.
Talking to customers earlier would have helped shape priorities faster. Tools like a lean canvas and developing ideal customer profiles have since been invaluable for narrowing down which markets to focus on.”
How Do You Keep Your Energy Up On Tough Days?
“Encouragement from my partner Brittany across the journey so far has definitely helped. Also, being a part of the MOA (Ministry of Awesome) Founder Catalyst program has been a huge boost.
Weekly meetings with my amazing mentor Cappy gives me accountability on my progress, and monthly think tanks with other startups gives fresh brains to the current problems we are tackling.”
Learn More
Who: Q&A with Casey Nordick of WoodWatch
HQ: New Zealand
Web: woodwatch.click
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