If your home has been damaged by fire, you may be feeling overwhelmed with worry, grief, and confusion over what to do next. There are several steps you should take after a house fire to start the recovery process and protect your health, home, and belongings. Regardless of size, a house fire can result in serious damage by flames, heat, smoke, and water.
At Hamilton Restoration, we understand what a serious loss this is - financially, mentally, and emotionally. As fire restoration specialists, we are committed to getting you safely back in your home as quickly as possible. We have the knowledge, equipment, and manpower to get the job done professionally and efficiently. (***Please do not underestimate the risk to your health and safety after the fire is out. The residual soot, smoke, and contaminated water left behind could make you sick. Walls and floors may have unseen damage making them unstable. Exercise extreme caution if you return to your home and touch any fire-damaged items.)
Find a safe place to stay.
Regardless of the severity of damage, you probably won’t be able to stay in your home. If staying with friends or family isn't an option, there are several disaster relief organizations that could provide temporary housing. The American Red Cross, Salvation Army, religious and civic organizations, and local nonprofits can help. There are serious and numerous health concerns with remaining in a home that has been damaged by smoke and/or fire. Even in the event of a small, localized fire, smoke can find its way into every area of your home - the absence of visible smoke does not mean it’s safe. Not only can smoke inhalation damage your respiratory system, it can cause further complications. Coughing, vomiting, nausea, confusion, and sleepiness are all signs of smoke inhalation. With byproducts like tar and carbon, the hidden smoke in your home can be a real health risk. Do not enter your home, business, or apartment until the fire department has given you the all-clear.
You’ll also want to secure alternative housing for your pets, and have them checked by a veterinarian, as burns can be hidden by fur. Remember that scared pets may react by scratching or biting, so approach them gently and with caution after a house fire.
Contact your insurance company and address your finances.
You'll need to start a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible to address your immediate and urgent needs. "Loss of use" funds from your insurance policy could help cover living and other expenses. Be sure you save all receipts and keep a detailed record of purchases. You’ll also want to get a copy of the fire report from your local fire department. If you haven’t taken the time to create a home inventory for the valuable items in your home, the time to do that is before you experience the devastating loss of a fire. Be sure you include a description of the item, cost of the item at time of purchase, and a photo if possible. After the fire, you’ll also want to document the damage to your home and belongings through photos and videos.
Be sure to contact your mortgage company to report the damage and credit card companies to report any credit cards that were lost in the fire. You’ll also want to assemble a list of documents that you’ll need to replace - birth certificates, social security cards, drivers licenses, auto registrations, medical records, and warranties should all be assessed and replaced. Handle burnt money as little as possible, and try to place each bill or part of a bill in plastic wrap to preserve it as much as possible. If money is partially burnt (50% or more is intact) your regional Federal Reserve Bank may replace it.
Be sure you keep a copy of all records, receipts, and documentation pertaining to your restoration project and note the name and phone number of everyone you speak to during the process. Additionally, keep a copy of all paperwork that your insurance company provides to you for a long time after the claims process is completed in case any issues arise down the road.
Call a fire restoration specialist.
Once you’ve secured safe housing and contacted your insurance company, calling a fire restoration specialist will ensure that all the other necessary steps are taken properly. At Hamilton Restoration, our services include temporary protection (securing your property and the contents inside), structural cleaning, and smoke, soot, and odor removal. We have specialized fire and water damage restoration training and certification through the Institute of Cleaning and Restoration.
Our fire restoration process begins with your initial phone call to our 24/7 emergency line at 689.222.7033. From there, we will schedule a visit to your home to inspect and assess the damage. After the initial assessment is complete and an action plan is in place, we’ll secure your home with board-up and tarp services to provide temporary protection. Most insurance companies require that homeowners provide “reasonable care” to protect your remaining property in order for your insurance policy to remain in effect. Water removal and drying will be completed after your home is secure and will be followed by smoke, soot, and odor removal. We will then clean and sanitize the restorable structures and items in your home. Restoration is the final step in the process, and may involve anything from minor repairs (replacing drywall and flooring, painting, etc.) to reconstruction of entire rooms or living areas.
Take care of your mental and emotional health.
Disasters can make coping extremely difficult, and the loss of your home and irreplaceable possessions will need to be processed and grieved. Be patient with yourself and your family members as you work through the necessary steps to recover financially, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Remember that your response to this loss is expected, and can include physical/mental exhaustion, difficulty making decisions or staying focused, increased irritability, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Recovery takes time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The American Red Cross can help you access resources for coping to a disaster or trauma.
We're here to help you after a house fire. We bring peace of mind to homeowners and insurance providers with integrity and professionalism, working 24/7 to restore your home or business. At Hamilton Restoration, perfection isn’t just the goal; it’s the expectation. Give us a call at 689-222-7033 or click here to learn more.