An unexpected fire can be a mentally and physically exhausting experience. Physical and emotional trauma can result from an event, leaving you in a state of despair and uncertainty about what steps are following necessary.
Fires usually leave terrible water damage when firefighters try to extinguish the flames. Firefighters typically use vast amounts of water to extinguish the flames that cause damage beyond repair due to structural, water, and smoke destruction. Repairing the damage from a fire can be daunting; however, restoring your property to its pre-loss condition is crucial.
Handling Water Damage Post-fire
This section will guide the steps to take when confronted with water damage after a fire.
Ensure Your Property Is Safe
After a fire has caused water damage to your property, the first step should always be to ensure the safety of your property. Based on the severity of the damage, there could be electrical or structural hazards in the area that could pose a threat. Before entering, contact either the department responsible for fire safety or an expert inspector first. Then, wear protective equipment, such as gloves, boots, and masks, to avoid exposure to harmful contaminants. You can avail of PuroClean’s fire restoration services if you cannot handle the project on your own. Professional aid is always preferred over DIY.
Call Your Insurance Company
When you’re confident you can go inside your water-damaged property, the next step is to contact your insurance company. Your fire and water damage insurance should be adequate. However, check your policy carefully to know how it applies in each instance. The insurance company will send an adjuster who can assess the damage and advise about the steps to take next.
Document the Damage
Documenting damage can help ensure an easy claim process. Take photos or videos of affected areas. You can then create a list of damaged items. For documentation, you can record the causes of water, structural, and fire damage. This will allow your insurance company to evaluate them properly and compensate you for repairs and replacement.
Seek Professional Help From Restoration Companies
Water damage can quickly cause mold growth and create other health risks if untreated. This makes restoration companies an indispensable service providers in times of disaster, such as floods or fires. They specialize in cleaning up after such incidents, with the experience and equipment needed for removing water, drying areas affected, and restoring your home to its condition before the loss. You can visit their website online and inquire about their services.
Here are some advantages of seeking out professional assistance:
- Professionals have the necessary equipment and the knowledge to restore your home efficiently and quickly.
- They can aid in preventing further damage and identify the hidden causes of mold growth, for example.
- Experts can collaborate with your insurance company to ensure your claim is paid the amount you deserve.
Conclusion
After the fire, managing water damage is often tricky and complicated. However, swift action must be taken quickly to prevent further destruction and restore your home to its pre-loss state. Before entering your house, wear protective equipment such as goggles. Contact your insurance company for assistance and restoration companies for professional help in case of need. Water damage is severe and must be addressed quickly for long-term restoration success.
Water damage can be irreparable without a solution; therefore, getting it under control is vital to restore your home to its pre-loss state. With these steps, reduce the damage caused by water, reduce repair costs, and restore your life quickly.
