After fire damage, it is natural to want to jump right in and clean the building and contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect action can jeopardize or impede satisfactory restoration.

DO…

• Clean and protect chrome trim on faucets and other brightwork by washing with detergent and applying a coating of Vaseline or oil.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, draperies and carpeting.
• Open windows for ventilation if weather permits.
• Empty refrigerators and freezers if electricity is shut off, and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper to allow air circulation.
• Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, tanks, sink and tub drains to prevent freeze damage if heat is off in winter.
• Call a plumber to drain and blow out all water lines if heat is off in winter.
• Remove pets to a clean environment if heavy fire residues are present.
• Send a sample group of garments for cleaning and deodorization in order to observe the results.
• Retain a contractor to board up open windows, roofs, or other penetrations in order to prevent additional damage.

DO NOT…

• Wipe or attempt to wash fire residues from walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
• Use carpeting or upholstered furniture impacted by heavy residues or debris.
• Use food items or canned goods exposed to heat.
• Turn on computers, TV’s, stereos or electrical appliances until they have been cleaned and checked

Soot (Furnace) Damage

While soot may resemble smoke residues from a fire, the restoration of soot damage often requires different techniques. Incorrect action can make restoration more difficult and delay the return to normal.

DO…

• Change and save the old furnace filter.
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose soot particles from upholstery, draperies and carpets.
• Cover upholstery with clean sheets before use.

DO NOT…

• Attempt to wash walls, ceilings or contents without professional assistance.

Home Owners Insurance | 11 June 2011

For those that have had to evacuate, your Home Owner’s Insurance has a part of your policy that includes paying for living expenses while evacuated.  Expect to have some kind of deductible, but hotel, food, gas, and other necessary living expenses are usually covered.  Please check with your own respective insurance company to get the most accurate information on the what your policy contains.  Many policy’s deductibles are either $500 or $1,000.00

For those people that have thrown any of these receipts away then you could use your online banking transaction log to show the expenses.  I’ve had to use this before and other companies (i’ve never tried with an insurance company) have accepted this log alongside receipts.  Get yourself a file and start saving everything.