Taking Action and Avoiding Mistakes After a Fire in Your Ellicott City Home. 

It is impossible to describe how devastating a house fire can be. It may be difficult for you to know the proper steps to take to restore and properly care for your home. Knowing how to take action and what mistakes to avoid can simplify fire damage restoration. 

Taking Action After a Fire

• Seek Help- If you're feeling overwhelmed or something is wrong, reach out for help. It is possible that a public adjuster can help you if you are feeling unfairly treated by your insurance company. 
• Take Inventory- Include a description and quantity for all damaged items in an inventory. You should share this information with your insurance agent so that your belongings are properly cared for and accounted for. There may be salvageable items and others that cannot, so this inventory list will simplify the process. 
• Document Everything- Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company and contractor. It is important that you have a written policy that explains what coverage you are entitled to. Throughout the process, be sure you are on the same page as your adjuster and contractor. 
• Hire A Professional- Working with an experienced mitigation contractor is crucial. Your home may need to be boarded up and secured before cleaning and restoration can begin. Call around and get contractor recommendations. Fire damage restoration is less urgent if the building is secure, so you can choose a contractor when you feel comfortable, as long as the building is secure.

Mistake to Avoid After a Fire 

• Downplaying Your Contents and Belongings-Ensure that the contents of your home are properly reported to your insurance provider. Take a detailed inventory. Assuming you have adequate coverage, your insurance provider will replace all damages to your home. The contents of your home will be properly divided into salvageable and non-salvageable items and either replaced or completely restored. 
• Waiting to get started-Unlike water damage restoration, fire damage restoration does not have the same urgency, but you shouldn't put it off. As soon as possible, contact your insurance company and make sure both the home and the occupants are safe. It takes time and effort to restore a fire-damaged building, so you should begin the process as soon as possible. 
• Settling- Take care to understand your policy, know your rights, and make sure you are getting adequate coverage. Remember that the contractor your insurance company recommends is not a requirement, nor are you obligated to use the same contractor throughout the entire project. When a contractor doesn't meet the quality you expect, you have the right to move on. It is one of the biggest investments you will ever make, and it should be taken care of appropriately up to the limits of your insurance policy. 

Even when a fire is relatively small, house fire restoration is a complex and time-consuming process. The more extensive the damage, the longer it takes to repair it. Though nothing can relieve the stress of a house fire completely, there are some simple things you should know and avoid.

If you have experienced damage from a fire, give Restoration1 Ellicott City a call right away! Your home can be restored by us.