Going through the experience of a fire at home is something that no one wants to encounter in life. Those who do have the misfortune of their home catching fire, there are certain steps that must be taken to get everything back to normal.
Below is a guide that explains the steps to take after a home fire. These processes can help ensure the home is brought back to its original condition without financial hardship.
Get Help
Before doing anything else, a homeowner must ensure that their property is entirely secure. That means calling for help if there is still an active fire and letting the firefighters do their work.
Make sure that everyone is out of the house. Sometimes people who are on the other side of the house may not hear the commotion. Then the firefighters can do their jobs and ensure the fire stops.
Assess the Situation
When the fire is out and there is no immediate danger to property or people, homeowners should take a moment to assess what has happened. Look around the interior and exterior of the house to see where damage occurred.
Only when a person takes a proper look through a house can they understand what may have happened as a result of the fire. If smell is an issue, airing out doors and windows can help to eliminate that odor before it begins to stick to the walls and furniture.
Consult the Insurance Provider
Put in a call to the insurance provider of the homeowners’ policy on the house. Insurance companies prefer to know about an incident as soon as it happens.
The insurance agent may ask the homeowner to take photographs and videos of all the damage to the inside and outside of the property. Such photos can help with filing an insurance claim.
Most companies can process claims within a few days, but there may be a delay if there was a recent natural disaster in the area. Remain patient while this process concludes.
Call a Restoration Company
When things are squared away with the insurance company, the next call should go to a damage restoration company. Homeowners need to hire a professional fire damage restoration company after a fire, as these experts can assess damage to the property and recommend the ideal solution.
Property owners should also consider hiring companies that offer environmentally-friendly restoration services. These professionals have the tools and expertise needed to carry out a green restoration – one that cleans and renews without adding any harmful material to the environment of the home or business.
There may be temptation to try and fix damage from a fire without consulting with a professional. Such a step is a mistake, as it can end up causing more financial hardship down the road.
Bring a Home Back to Its Original State
By connecting with the insurance provider and then a home restoration company, homeowners can ensure their property is repaired in the best way possible.
Taking such measures does not leave anything to chance, as the insurance company should pay for all the work being done by the green restoration professionals.