What to Do and Not to Do If You Have a House Fire

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Feelings of confusion and stress are common, and you need a caring expert to guide you through this crisis.

House fires are a devastating and overwhelming experience. Knowing some general dos and don’ts for fire damage restoration can help streamline the process and remove some of the stress.

Things To Do

Throughout the process of your fire damage restoration, there are multiple things that should be done that will make the process easier for you.

Document Everything

Make sure that all aspects of your policy are in writing and that you understand the language of your insurance policy and the coverage you’re entitled to.

Take Inventory

Prepare an inventory of your damaged property with the quantity and description of everything. Some items will be salvageable and some will not depending on the level of damage, so this inventory list will help simplify this process.

Hire A Professional

You may need help boarding up and securing your home before cleaning and restoration can even begin. There is somewhat less urgency for an immediate start on fire damage restoration as long as the building is secure, so you can take some time to find a contractor who makes you feel comfortable. 

Seek Help

There are industry standards that have to be met. A good contractor will be knowledgeable about these standards and can help you navigate the insurance claim process to ensure you’re getting the coverage you pay for.

Things To Avoid

While there are certain things you should do to make the process easier for yourself, there are also several things you should try to avoid in the fire restoration process.

Don't Wait to Get Started

While fire restoration doesn’t typically have the same urgency as water restoration, you still don’t want to delay getting started. Extensive fire restoration is a long, involved process, so you’ll want to get it started quickly.

Don't Downplay Your Contents and Belongings

When you take your inventory, be specific. Assuming you have the appropriate insurance coverage, everything in your home that was damaged will be either replaced or repaired. Being specific will ensure that your contents are properly sorted into salvageable and non-salvageable items and either replaced or restored completely.

Don't Settle

Know your rights, understand your policy, and make sure you’re getting the coverage you’re entitled to. If your contractor isn’t providing the quality of work you expect, you are allowed to move on to someone else. Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make and it should be cared for appropriately up to the limits of your insurance policy.