FIRE LOSS DO’S AND DON’TS

DO:

1. Contact your insurance company.
2. Obtain bids from various fire restoration companies. Do not rely exclusively on any insurance company recommended provider. Such preferred providers sometimes have longstanding relationships with the insurance company which may compromise their independence.
3. Limit movement in the home to prevent soot from becoming imbedded in fabrics, upholstery and carpets.
4. Keep hands clean to limit further damage from transfer of soot to other upholstery, walls and woodwork.
5. Where appropriate, blow or brush vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.
6. Place clean towels or linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
7. If your electricity is off, empty refrigerators and freezers. Leave doors open.
8. Wash house plants thoroughly.
9. Block air registers.
10. Change HVAC filters.
11. Take photographs and video to document the damage and loss. Do not rely on the insurance company to do this for you.

DON’T:

1. Attempt to wash walls or painted surfaces.
2. Attempt to clean or repair electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water.
3. Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
4. Send garments and linens to a regular dry cleaner.
5. Accept any settlement offer unless you are sure that it includes all coverage owed.