What Is the Protocol After a Fire Damages My Home?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Having a fire cause damage to your home or property is devastating, and often times some things get lost in the shuffle as homeowners become overwhelmed with the aftermath. Here is short list of important things to get done immediately after a fire:

1. Find a safe place to stay. Living inside a home with soot and fire damage can cause prolonged damage and including poor air quality that you and your family could be breathing in.
2. Contact your insurance. Immediately filing a claim with your insurance carrier can help move the process along and make sure you have somewhere to live while your home is being assessed and remediated from the fire damage.
3. Protect your home from other weather conditions. Make sure your home has been boarded up or tarped to prevent any rain or wind damage that can be caused by openings in the structure.
4. Get your pets inspected by a veterinarian immediately. Smoke inhalation can damage small animals’ lungs and burns can hide under their fur.
5. Make sure to get a copy of the fire report. You can usually get fire reports from your local fire department. The report may be helpful in providing information for your insurance agency.
6. Continue and budget your finances. You will still be responsible to make your mortgage payments even if your home is destroyed. You'll also need to continue any car payments and replace any credit or debit cards that may have been destroyed in the house fire.
7. Take care of your family and yourself. Having a disaster strike can cause concerns with young children. Taking the time you need to recover and make sure everyone is well taken care of will help ease the process of getting your home back to normal.

After you and your family are taken care of, be sure to call SERVPRO to handle to fire damage and take care of your contents. We are already ready to take your call! (847) 593-3055