Experiencing a home fire is overwhelming, and your emotions will be running high. This can make it difficult to determine what steps to take. Your most important concern is keeping your family safe. The seven most important steps below will guide you through this difficult and confusing time.
Step 1: Safety Always Comes First
Do not enter your home after a fire unless you are 100 percent certain it is safe. Your best option is to ask a professional such as a member of the fire department, an insurance damage restoration specialist, or a local building official. Entering your home prematurely can put you at risk due to numerous hazards:
- The structure of your home may have been compromised.
- There may be dangerous electrical concerns.
- Falling debris could cause injury.
Smoke can darken your home, making it difficult to see these dangers. Additionally, health risks are present. After a fire, PICs (particulate combustion products) are generated. Many PICs are carcinogens and remain on surfaces and in the air. These microscopic particles are easily ingested, so avoid touching items damaged by fire.
Your utilities may have been turned off by the fire department for safety. Do not turn them back on until told it is safe. Water and fire damage may also make your home unfit for habitation. The only way to know for certain if it is safe to enter is to consult professionals and follow their guidance.
Step 2: Call the Emergency Response Teams
Make sure all necessary emergency response teams have been contacted, including the fire department and police department. Prompt intervention can help mitigate damage to your home.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Agent as Soon as Safety Permits
Contacting your insurance agent is crucial. Call them once your family is safe and emergency services have been notified. Your agent can:
- Explain your deductible
- Recommend reputable restoration professionals
- Answer questions about securing your home
An insurance damage restoration specialist may be sent to assess your property. Before hiring any professionals, request a written estimate. Discuss your financial responsibilities for repairs with your agent.
Keep all receipts for expenses related to the fire. Determine which items have been lost and provide an estimated value to your insurance company. Picture each room to help create a detailed list of damaged or lost items. This step is critical for recovering your losses. If you are unsure what your policy covers, ask your insurance agent or review your policy.
Step 4: Hiring a Water and Smoke Damage Professional
Professional companies provide remediation services for water and smoke damage. Hiring trained contractors is essential due to their extensive knowledge, experience, and ability to remove microorganisms like bacteria, mildew, and mold, which pose serious health risks.
Fire damage restoration specialists and water and smoke damage professionals work together to restore your home. Once safe to enter, immediate assistance from these professionals is available. They understand inspections, permits, and compliance with local building codes and regulations.
Step 5: Minimizing Long-Term Damage
Most insurance policies require securing your home against vandalism and additional damage once the fire is out. This includes protecting your property from people and the elements. Once the fire department confirms it is safe, secure your home as best you can.
Actions to take:
- Cover holes in the roof, damaged doors, and windows with tarps or plywood.
- Hire a professional if you cannot secure the property yourself.
- Check with your insurance company to see if costs are covered.
- Contact your local police department to help monitor your property.
Boarding up your home may also be necessary. All openings should be covered to protect from weather while allowing VOCs, toxins, and particulates to dissipate. Without proper ventilation, burned materials can remain dangerous. Professionals will enter with breathing equipment and protective masks.
Unless trained in fire damage restoration, you cannot properly address these concerns. Your insurance agent will authorize restoration companies to secure your home and mitigate damage from fire, smoke, and water.
Step 6: Calling a Professional Restoration Company
Once a restoration company is called, emergency response professionals will be dispatched to assess damage. After safety is confirmed:
- Openings, holes, windows, and doors are secured to prevent further damage
- Water is pumped out to reduce mold and water damage
- Ventilation begins immediately using air scrubbers and industrial fans
Proper ventilation helps reduce smoke exposure to your belongings and home, and removes VOCs and toxins from the air. Professionals use specialized equipment, cleaning agents, and filters that are unavailable to homeowners. They also have the experience necessary to fully eliminate smoke, which is highly corrosive and can continue damaging your home even after the fire is out.
Step 7: A Place to Stay
You may not be able to remain in your home after a fire. Your insurance policy will often cover temporary shelter, clothing, and food for a limited time. If your insurance does not cover these expenses, contact family, friends, your church, or the American Red Cross.
Ensure you have the essentials: shelter, clothing, and food. If unsure what your policy covers, consult your insurance agent.
NYTDR Is Here to Restore Your Home and Your Peace of Mind
At NYTDR – New York Total Damage Restoration, we understand how overwhelming a house fire can be. Our team of experienced restoration specialists is here to guide you through every step of the recovery process, from ensuring your home is safe to managing smoke, fire, and water damage. We work closely with your insurance company to maximize your coverage and restore your home efficiently and safely.
Reach out to NYTDR today for expert fire damage restoration services and peace of mind when you need it most.
