Even if the fire department doesn't declare your property damage to be "catastrophic," the aftermath of a house fire is devastating. It's hard for property owners to know what to do once the fire marshall leaves, and you're on your own.
1. CALL A FIRE DAMAGE EXPERT
It can sometimes take days for your insurance company to send out an adjuster and suggest a restoration plan, but you don't have to wait. It's beneficial and advisable to contact a fire damage restoration company like ServiceMaster immediately. They'll be there within an hour to help you figure out what to do next and how to talk to your insurance company.
2. PACK UP ANY VALUABLES, IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Because smoke damage creates a highly toxic living environment, very often you'll need to temporarily relocate until at least some smoke/soot cleanup is performed. If possible, salvage and pack any valuables or important documents (insurance policies, financial records, etc.) to take with you.
3. STAY SAFE
Do not touch anything soot-damaged with your bare hands; fire residue is a biohazard. Do not use electrical appliances until they've been assessed for safety. If you still have power, make sure your HVAC system is off so the smoke and soot doesn't spread through to unaffected areas of the house.
4. LET SERVICEMASTER HELP YOU WITH THE REST
Our family and crew have been helping residents in and around Lynchburg and all of Central Virginia for decades if they ever experience a property loss caused by fire.
Beyond the first 24 hours after the fire itself, there may be days or weeks of cleanup, repair, and reconstruction ahead. We will stay by your side through it all and make sure your property and your normal life is restored as soon as possible.
- Full-Service Fire Damage Restoration, Start-to-Finish
- Skilled, Licensed Tradespeople
- Insurance Claims Assistance, Documentation
- Workmanship Guarantee - We Stand By Our Work
Our team of professional and certified technicians is on call 24/7 to help you recover from fire and smoke damage, including:
Emergency Board-Up and Roof Tarping
Contents Packout and Salvage
Smoke Odor Removal / Ozone Fogging
Water Damage Cleanup from Firefighting Efforts
Soot Removal and Cleaning
Project Management for the Many Contractors Onsite
Fire Damage Insurance Claims Assistance
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WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER A HOUSE FIRE
- Do not touch any residue with your bare hands.
- Avoid re-entering the home until after smoke damage restoration if you have any chronic lung conditions or severe allergies.
- Do not attempt to clean carpets or upholstery. Improper cleaning can cause permanent damage.
- Do not use electrical appliances until they've been cleared for safety.
- Avoid entering spaces where the ceiling is wet due to firefighting efforts.
