What to Do After a Home Fire
When your home suffers a fire, however big or small, there’s a lot you have to deal with. It can be difficult sorting through the mess and figuring out how you’re going to get it all done. Fire damage restoration can be a costly and tiring experience. Having a plan and acting on it quickly can help save you time and money in the long run. Time is of the essence in any home emergency, especially in a fire.
Secure Safety
The very first thing to do after a house fire is to secure your safety and the safety of those living with you. This is about more than just putting out the fire. Depending on the size and severity, your home could be dangerous. If the fire was contained in one room and was small, you probably can get by simply quarantining that room and staying away while repairs are done. For larger, more extensive fires, however, you’ll need to find lodging for you and your family while work is completed.
You’ll also want to take steps to ensure the security of your home and belongings. Fires – and the methods used to fight them – can lead to broken windows and doors. They can also create unintended openings in your home. While clean-up and restoration are being organized and implemented, you need to ensure your home is protected from burglars and wildlife by boarding up all exposed entrances.
Get an Inspection
Even if the fire was small, you should have your home inspected after a fire. The flames themselves can cause damage, and so can smoke, soot, and the chemicals and water used to put out the fire. Your home can suffer a great deal of damage that is not immediately visible. Having your home inspected after a fire is the best way to fully understand the damages sustained.
Call Insurance
Most homeowners and renters insurance policies cover the repair costs of a fire. After having an inspection, you should have an itemized list of what was damaged and the estimated time and money cost to repair it. With this in hand, you can call your insurance adjuster to discover what your policy covers and what help you can expect to receive. Most insurance companies operate on a reimbursement system. It means that you’ll have to pay for the repairs upfront. However, the insurance company will send you money to cover these expenses.
Experiencing a home fire can be a frightening thing, and having to deal with the aftermath is frustrating and sometimes confusing. ServiceMaster Albino is here to help with your fire damage restoration needs. Our trained and certified technicians are available 24/7 to respond to any emergency situation. Call us anytime, day or night, at 203-753-0666 if your home experiences a fire, no matter the size.