Homeowners would not want to be on the receiving end of a fire. The damage it brings will not only cause extensive damage to your property but also leave you and your family exposed to potential health hazards down the line.
The good news is that a fire damage restoration can restore your home or workplace to its pre-loss condition. However, before rehabilitation can begin, there are certain things you must do and avoid to protect your property and health. Here are some of them:
Do's
Call the Insurance Company: This is usually the first thing you are compelled to do after a fire. Your insurance company will help you throughout the restoration process and help you file a claim.
Secure Your Property: After a fire, your property may be vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Secure your property by boarding broken windows and doors and installing temporary fencing.
Document the Damage: Don’t hesitate to take clear photos and videos of the property's damage. Doing so will help with your insurance claim and provide empirical evidence for your restoration contractor.
Hire a Professional Restoration Contractor: Fire damage restoration is complicated and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Hire a professional restoration contractor certified and experienced in fire damage restoration.
Keep Track of Expenses: Note and monitor all the fees and costs related to the restoration process. This includes restoration fees, temporary housing, and meals.
Check for Safety Hazards: Fire damage can create safety hazards such as weakened structures, exposed electrical wires, and toxic fumes. Make sure to check for these hazards before re-entering your property.
Don'ts
Don't Enter Your Property Until It's Safe: Before entering your property, make sure it's safe to do so. Check for structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical hazards.
Don't Attempt to Clean up the Damage Yourself: Fire damage restoration requires specialized equipment and expertise. Doing all the cleaning yourself may further damage the property and be a health hazard.
Don't Use Electrical Appliances: Electrical appliances may be damaged by the fire and pose a fire hazard. Do not use any electrical appliances until a professional has inspected them.
Don't Dispose of Damaged Items: Do not dispose of any damaged items until your insurance company has inspected them. They may be able to be restored or repaired.
Don't Ignore Your Health: Fire damage can create health hazards such as smoke inhalation, toxic fumes, and mold growth. Always wear protective gear when re-entering your property and consult a medical professional if you have any health issues.
Summary
Fire damage restoration requires specialized equipment and expertise. Before it begins, you must contact your insurance company, secure your property, document the damage, hire a professional restoration contractor, and check for safety hazards. However, you must refrain from entering your property until it's safe, attempting to clean up the damage yourself, using electrical appliances, disposing of damaged items, and neglecting your health.
In the wake of a fire, we at Best Option Restoration Highlands Ranch can minimize the extent of the damage and restore your residential or commercial property to its pre-loss condition. Our staff is available 24/7 with the equipment and experience to deal with any fire damage restoration project, from small fires to large-scale disasters.
Get your life back on track after a fire. Call us anytime at (720) 669-8062. One of our representatives will get back to you as soon as possible.