Fire Damage Restoration
Restoring Your Home After Fire & Smoke Damage
A fire in your home is devastating, leaving behind structural damage, smoke residue, and lingering odors. At Haven Builders, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be, which is why we provide expert fire damage restoration to rebuild and restore your home with care and efficiency.
Our team specializes in removing smoke and soot, repairing fire-damaged structures, and eliminating odors to ensure a safe and healthy living environment. We work closely with your insurance company to assess the damage, coordinate repairs, and restore your home to pre-loss condition. Whether the fire was small or caused extensive damage, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you recover with confidence.
Let us handle the restoration, so you can focus on moving forward.
Our streamlined process ensures that every project is handled professionally, efficiently, and with your satisfaction in mind.
Final walkthrough!
Piece of Mind! We ensure you are satisfied with the finished product and get you registered for your warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ensure everyone is safe and accounted for. Do not re-enter the home until authorities declare it safe. Contact emergency services if not already done. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Secure temporary housing if needed, and contact organizations like the American Red Cross for immediate assistance with shelter, food, and supplies.
Contact your insurance provider immediately. Document the damage with photos or videos before moving anything, if safe to do so. Make a detailed list of damaged or lost items, including receipts or proof of value if available. Your insurer will assign an adjuster to assess the damage and guide you through the claims process.
Do not start cleanup until authorities and your insurance adjuster approve. Professional fire restoration services are often needed for smoke, soot, and water damage from firefighting efforts. Avoid touching damaged items to prevent further harm or health risks from soot and chemicals. Wear protective gear if allowed to begin cleanup.
Smoke inhalation can cause respiratory issues, even if not immediately apparent—seek medical attention if you experience symptoms like coughing or dizziness. Soot and ash may contain toxic chemicals, so avoid direct contact and use protective equipment. Mental health support may also be needed to cope with trauma or loss.
Contact relevant agencies to replace documents like IDs, passports, birth certificates, and property deeds. For example, visit your state’s DMV for a driver’s license, the Social Security Administration for a Social Security card, or the county recorder for property records. Your insurance provider may assist with documenting losses for claims.
A fire escape plan should include at least two exit routes from every room, a designated meeting point outside (e.g., a neighbor’s house or a tree), and a clear path to safety. Ensure all household members, including children, know the plan. Practice it twice a year, including at night, to simulate different scenarios. Account for special needs, like mobility aids or pets, and assign roles to ensure everyone is accounted for.
Smoke and water damage often require professional restoration services, as soot is corrosive and water can lead to mold. Contact a fire restoration company approved by your insurer. They’ll use specialized equipment to remove soot, deodorize, and dry out affected areas. Avoid using wet electronics or furniture until assessed to prevent further damage.
It depends on the extent of the damage. Even small fires can leave hazardous smoke residue or compromise structural safety. A fire inspector or building official must assess the home before re-entry. If allowed to stay, ensure proper ventilation and have utilities (like electricity and gas) checked for safety.
Discard any food, beverages, or medications exposed to heat, smoke, or firefighting chemicals, as they may be contaminated. Canned goods may be salvageable if undamaged and properly cleaned, but consult your insurer or a professional. For medications, contact your pharmacy or doctor for replacements, and inform your insurance provider for potential reimbursement.
Notify your landlord immediately, as they are responsible for structural repairs. Your renters’ insurance should cover personal belongings and temporary housing costs. Review your lease for details on responsibilities. If uninsured, contact local aid organizations for support. Document all damage to your possessions for any claims or disputes.
Recovery time varies based on the fire’s severity, insurance processing, and repair scope. Minor damage may take weeks, while major structural repairs could take months. Insurance claims typically start within days, but full restoration, including rebuilding, could extend to 6–12 months. Stay in regular contact with your adjuster for updates.
Smoke odor lingers and often requires professional remediation. Restoration experts use ozone generators, thermal fogging, or specialized cleaning to neutralize odors. Avoid DIY cleaning, as improper methods can set smells deeper into materials. Wash or dry-clean salvageable clothes, and replace air filters in HVAC systems to prevent odor recirculation.
Review the denial letter to understand the reason. Gather evidence like photos, receipts, or repair estimates to support your case, and appeal the decision with your insurer, following their process. If unresolved, contact your state’s insurance commissioner for assistance or consider hiring a public adjuster or attorney specializing in insurance claims.
Fires can release hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, or chemical residues from burned plastics. Avoid handling debris without protective gear. Hire licensed professionals for cleanup, especially if hazardous materials are suspected. Firefighting foam or water runoff may contaminate soil or water sources, so consult local environmental agencies for guidance.
Check if your insurance covers Additional Living Expenses (ALE), which can pay for hotels, rentals, or meals. Keep receipts for all related costs. If uninsured, contact the American Red Cross or local shelters for immediate housing. For longer-term needs, explore FEMA aid (if applicable) or local housing assistance programs.
