SERVPRO: Important FAQs answered for property owners who have experienced a fire damage event

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: A fire event can be a mentally traumatic experience and make it hard for homeowners to make the right decisions. The SERVPRO blog shares the answers to many common questions regarding fire damage.

Frequently asked questions on fire damage

Fire is a dangerous and life-altering event. It can leave the inhabitants of a home or the owners of a commercial building mentally, emotionally, and financially stressed. When such life-threatening incidents take place, it becomes hard to think clearly and make the right calls. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company in Southlake, sheds light on some important and frequently asked questions that can help property owners make better decisions post-fire.

Here’s a list of some FAQs

1. 1. What should be my first step after a fire?

Once the fire has been extinguished by the fire department, the owners must ensure the safety of all inhabitants. Fire damage restoration experts must be contacted immediately to assess the damage and begin the restoration work. The insurance company must also be informed of the fire incident.

2. Do I need to relocate during the fire damage restoration process?

Some fires are limited to a small area while others spread across the whole space leading to structural damage. Immediately after the fire, residents must not re-enter without the approval of the authority. In case of severe damage, residents are usually unable to access basic amenities like water. The smell of smoke and noise disruption caused by the restoration procedures are neither comfortable nor safe. Relocation is recommended until it is safe.

3. How long is the fire damage restoration process?

This depends on the extent of the fire damage repairs needed. Structural damage requires restoring parts of drywall or ceiling or a complete replacement and building of structures. The water damage caused by the fire extinguishing activity and the delay caused in beginning the restoration process are other factors that decide the time needed to restore the property. Commercial spaces take longer to restore compared to homes due to their larger area and the inspection code of the city.

4. Should I take my belongings with me?

When a property undergoes massive fire damage, the structure is often unstable or does not allow for a situation wherein the residents can carry the contents with them during relocation. Professional fire damage restoration companies like SERVPRO will create an inventory list and send the contents for restoration to their advanced restoration facility. Valuables that are undamaged such as coins, artwork, personal documents, checkbooks, cash, credit cards, and medications can be taken by the residents.

5. Can I help the team in the fire damage restoration process?

Property owners may want to assist the restoration team in expediting the process but they may unknowingly worsen the situation. Household cleaning agents for instance can cause the residue to smear and seep further into the damaged contents. It is advised to wait for the professional restoration team that has the know-how, advanced equipment, and resources to safely restore a property. 

6. Can I use electronics or switch on the HVAC?

Until the team has inspected the electronics and the HVAC unit and approved them for use, homeowners must refrain from using them. The fire extinguishing activity and the fire itself may have damaged the wires in the wall and can be dangerous. Turning on HVACS may end up circulating the soot and smoke particles throughout the house thereby causing potential health effects.   

Why SERVPRO? 

• SERVPRO is a fire damage restoration company that uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire restoration services, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com