What Do I Do After A Fire?

11/4/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage is a home owner’s worst nightmare. Even a small fire can require costly repairs when all is said and done. Without the knowledge or professional aid of a restoration crew, it is easy to feel lost and alone when recovering from a home fire. That is why research is key. Talk to a restoration crew about the after effects of fire damage so that you are better equipped to deal with the lingering effects of smoke and scorched property. Regardless of the size of the fire, it is always a good idea to schedule an inspection before attempting any fixes on your own. 

Once you know what you are dealing with, you can begin the slow and daunting task of restoring your home to its former glory. When a home in Oceanside / Fallbrook has fire damage occur, there will be an unpleasant odor, due to the soot and smoke that is left behind. It is not recommended that the home owner attempt to clean the soot on their own, especially after a large fire. The reason is that soot and leftover smoke can be dangerous. Professional gear is required to handle such fire damage safely and efficiently. Only a professional restoration team has access to the cleaning agents used to treat smoke, soot and fire damage. 

Before dealing with a contractor, it is important that you speak to your insurance agent. After a fire, you may receive quotes from eager construction crews willing to help you rebuild. However, what is in your insurance policy will likely dictate the course of action when it comes to reconstruction. It is best to let your agent deal with this, so that you can focus on other things. 

Your insurance company will need a list of all damaged property. Be sure to separate all damaged and undamaged items to make this process easier. If all goes well, you will be reimbursed for the damaged items, depending on your insurance policy. You may even be reimbursed for storage fees, if you need to remove damaged items from your home. This is a good idea, as burnt property may contain harmful soot and make the deodorizing process more difficult. You may also want to move undamaged property to a safe location. Furniture, and other items, might absorb the unpleasant odor, ruining an otherwise undamaged piece of property. 

Your insurance company may cover Loss of Use. This means that they will pay for shelter and food if your home is unfit to live in while the restoration process occurs. If so, it is best to be reasonable when reserving a hotel or motel for your family. The insurance company will only cover what is necessary, and this will help you to avoid complications when the bill arrives. 

Most home owners would not consider water damage after a fire. However, the two usually go hand in hand, as water is used when extinguishing a fire. Water damage can be just as destructive, so be sure to treat your home accordingly. A water removal team will help to prevent any further destruction and the development of mold. 

SERVPRO of Fallbrook / South Oceanside utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We proudly serve with 24/7 emergency availability. 

SERVPRO of Fallbrook / South Oceanside is a fully certified water removal staff can perform a complete damage assessment to your home of office, and then recommend and follow the industries standards to get your water removal restoration repaired properly available 24 hours a day.

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