The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported over 500,000 structure fires, causing about $15 billion in property damage in 2022. Residential fires made up a large part of this, especially in one- and two-family homes.

That being said, fires aren’t uncommon, and dealing with one can be hard. However, no one should go through fire damage alone. Fire damage restoration contractors can help people return to normal quickly.

In this article, we’ll discuss the fire damage restoration process and help you choose the right fire damage restoration service, so let’s jump right in!

What Does the Fire Damage Restoration Process Look Like?

First of all, before any fire damage contractor can start, they need a green pass from a licensed authority to enter the property. This ensures safety and decreases any risk of injury. Once they get the go-ahead, here’s how the fire damage process usually goes:

Step 1: Check the Damage

First, the contractor looks at how far the fire and smoke went and what needs cleaning. They also decide what items can be saved and what should be thrown away. After this, they know how much work is needed and can give a cost estimate.

Insider advice: Contractors usually detect hidden damage, such as water inside walls and ceilings using moisture meters and thermal cameras.

Step 2: Secure the Property and Remove Debris

Next, they secure the property by putting up fences, boarding up openings, and covering parts of the roof. They also clear debris around the property. Moreover, they prevent contamination by sealing off areas not affected by the fire.

Insider advice: During the cleanup, restoration companies document everything with the help of insurance adjusters. This helps with insurance claims.

Step 3: Remove Water and Dry Out

Fire damage restoration contractors stop further damage from mold or rust by removing water and drying the property. They also take out damaged items and materials, like drywall and flooring.

Insider advice: Contractors set up big dehumidifiers and air movers that run all day to dry out the property. These machines can run for several days to make sure everything is dry.

Step 4: Clean Up and Remove Smoke

This step involves a lot of cleaning. Contractors clean smoke and soot from all surfaces. They use deodorizing agents to remove smoke odors.

If there is water damage, they sanitize for mold prevention. They also clean and restore items taken off-site as well as ducts to remove any leftover soot or debris.

Insider advice: Experts use special cleaners for smoke and soot that remove odors at a deep level. They also clean and save clothes and electronics using advanced methods.

Step 5: Repair and Restore

The repairing and rebuilding step might include fixing the roof and replacing electrical systems, drywall, flooring, and fixtures.

Insider advice: Restoration companies work with carpenters, electricians, and plumbers because all repairs must meet building codes.

Post-Fire Recovery: Tips for Homeowners

Recovering from a fire can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you navigate the complexities of post-fire recovery.

Document the Damage: Make sure to take photos or videos of all the damaged items and areas. This can be very helpful for insurance purposes.

Contact Your Insurance Company: Get in touch with your insurance provider as soon as possible. Document every step of the process, including even the communication with the insurance company, such as emails and call logs.

Prevent Additional Damage: Secure your home even further by, for example, covering the damaged roof or boarding up any broken windows. This will prevent additional damage from the weather and attempts of unauthorized entry.

Seek Professional Help: Consider hiring a fire damage restoration company. These professionals have experience with the entire recovery process, from cleanup to rebuilding. Some of these companies even aid with insurance and financing.

Save Important Documents: Retrieve important documents and put them in a safe place. This includes IDs, insurance papers, and financial records. If they’re damaged, contact the authorities to find out how to get replacements.

Hopefully, following these tips will help you have a smoother return to normalcy and help you get the fire damage restoration process completed as soon as possible.

How Long Does Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration Take?

The fire damage cleanup and restoration process can last from a few days to several months, depending on how bad the fire was.

- Small fire damage: This includes removing smoke odors, cleaning, and making small repairs, which usually take a few days to a week.

- Moderate fire damage: If you had a bigger fire that damaged a room or a whole area, the fire damage cleanup and restoration might take several weeks. It often includes more thorough smoke and soot cleaning, removing water, fixing parts of the area, and possibly some remodeling.

- Severe fire damage: If the fire damages a large part of the property or causes major structural issues, it can take several months. This includes major rebuilding, extensive cleaning, and dealing with water and mold problems, such as black mold.

Every situation is different, so you should discuss yours with a fire restoration company for a precise timeline.

What is the Fire Damage Cleanup Cost?

Like the duration of the whole process, the cost also depends on various factors, such as the size of the property, the extent of the damage, the type of materials affected, and labor costs.

- Small incidents: For small fires, the cost can range from $3,000 to $7,000. This includes smoke odor removal, cleaning, and minor repairs.

- Moderate damage: For fires that cause more significant damage to a room or area, the cost might range from $7,000 to $25,000. This includes more extensive cleaning, water extraction, structural repairs, and some remodeling.

- Severe cases: In cases where a fire has affected a large portion of the property or caused major structural damage, the cost can exceed $50,000. This includes major reconstruction, extensive cleaning, and addressing water and mold issues.

If you or someone you know experienced a fire, call us for a more accurate fire damage restoration cost.

Why Hire a Company That Offers Fire Damage Restoration Services?

Excellent fire damage restoration companies, like RAM Restoration, don’t take breaks. They’re at your disposal 24/7, every day of the year. That means they usually evaluate damage, secure your property, and start water removal services the same day.

Moreover, home restoration services help with insurance claims so you receive support throughout the restoration process. They also keep people updated on progress so that they don’t feel stressed or unsure about anything.

Lastly, they offer fire damage restoration services that can help save your property like cleanup, water removal, mold remediation, smoke and fire damage repair, both interior and exterior construction, and more.

All in all, hiring a fire damage restoration company means having professional help with saving your home and taking the right steps toward a successful restoration.

How to Choose the Right Fire Damage Restoration Company?

You can’t just hire any fire damage restoration company. First, you should check online reviews and ask for references. Hearing what people have to say about a company that you’re interested in hiring can show you how reliable it is.

We also suggest asking for a portfolio or before-and-after photos from similar projects. The following factors also matter:

Availability and Response Time

Find a company that offers 24/7 emergency service. Quick response is crucial to prevent more damage like water issues or mold growth. Ask about their response time.

Experience and Expertise

Look for a company experienced in fire damage restoration. Experience helps them handle cleanup effectively. Ask about their certifications and training in fire restoration.

Insurance Knowledge

Dealing with insurance can be tough after a fire. Choose a company that knows how to work with insurance companies. They should help with claims and provide the right documentation.

Services Offered

Choose a company that does more than basic cleanup. They should handle water removal, smoke and soot cleaning, repairs, and even rebuilding if needed. Ask about their tools and methods for cleaning smoke and soot.

Communication and Transparency

Clear communication is key during a stressful time. Pick a company that keeps you updated and has a dedicated project manager. This makes it easier to get answers and updates.

Local Reputation

How is the company seen in your community? A well-known company with a good reputation is likely to give good service. Ask neighbors or friends for recommendations.

Let Us Restore Your Home or Business Successfully!

At RAM Restoration, we understand that dealing with fire damage isn’t easy. Our team is here not just to fix your home, but your peace of mind, too.

We will immediately start our fire damage restoration process and restore your property as quickly as possible.

Know that we’re always available and provide superb service by keeping you in the loop at all times and providing the support you need during this hard time.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Fire Damage

Taking proactive steps to prevent fires is crucial in safeguarding your home and family. Here are several essential practices to help minimize the risk of fire in your residence:

Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors

One of the most effective ways to detect a fire early is by installing smoke detectors in key areas of your home, including near bedrooms and in the kitchen. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year or as needed to ensure they are always functional.

Regularly Check Electrical Appliances

Faulty electrical appliances and worn-out wiring are common causes of residential fires. Inspect electrical cords regularly for fraying or damage and avoid overloading power outlets. If you notice any issues, have a professional repair or replace the faulty items promptly.

Practice Kitchen Safety

Never leave cooking unattended as most fires start in the kitchen. Keep flammable materials such as towels, paper products, and cooking oil away from the stove. Also, ensure that all cooking appliances are turned off when not in use.

Safe Heating Practices

During colder months, heating equipment like space heaters need to be used with caution. Always place space heaters on a stable, non-flammable surface and at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Never leave them on when you are sleeping or out of the house.

Educate Your Family on Fire Safety

Regular discussions about fire safety and escape plans can dramatically improve your family’s ability to respond if a fire occurs. Practice fire drills twice a year and ensure that everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher.

By integrating these safety measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire occurring in your home. Prevention is always better than restoration, and taking these steps can provide peace of mind, knowing your home is better protected against fire hazards.

FAQs

How do you restore after a fire?

Restoring a home after a fire starts with a professional assessment of the damage. The process includes removing damaged items, cleaning soot and smoke, and sanitizing the area. The final steps involve repairing or reconstructing the affected parts to return the home to its pre-fire condition.

What is the process of restoration?

The restoration process begins by securing the property to prevent further damage, followed by removing any water present. Cleaning and sanitizing all affected areas is crucial to eliminate contaminants. The final step involves repairing or replacing damaged structures and items to restore the property fully.

What is the meaning of fire damage restoration?

Fire damage restoration is the comprehensive process of returning a fire-damaged property to its original condition. This includes cleaning up debris, smoke, and soot; sanitizing and repairing structures; and ensuring the property is safe and habitable again.

How do you remove fire damage?

Removing fire damage involves a thorough cleaning of all affected surfaces to remove soot and smoke. This is followed by the removal of non-salvageable debris and the repair of structural damage. The area is then sanitized and restored to ensure safety and restore its pre-fire condition.

Fire Damage Restoration Process: All You Need to Know