The unique nature of a basement fire makes it extremely dangerous. This is because they often contain hazardous and flammable materials and most basements have a limited amount of exits. Additionally, fire damage to the basement requires significant and sizable cleanup because of the possible structural damage that may have occurred.
How To Handle Fire Damage In A Basement
Smoke is the biggest problem with fire damage in a basement. This is because smoke rises and infiltrates the HVAC system during the fire. If this circulates throughout the whole house, extreme damage can occur. The substantial damage left behind will most likely require professional cleanup. The act of cleaning up after fire damage to a basement is more than just wiping down the walls and cleaning the floors.
Here is how it should be handled
1. Check in with your insurer
The agreement you have with your insurance company affects the final cost of your basement fire restoration. Depending on the details of the fire and the coverage you have, your homeowner’s insurance will cover all or some part of the cleanup. However, you must be aware that policies vary from one provider to another.
You should speak directly with your insurance company before commencing work. Many of them have preferred contractors that can help with the restoration. Ensure that your insurance company is aware of the fire damage to your basement. Also, take videos and photos of the damage as evidence. This can be the difference between getting either a large or small compensation package.
2. Assess the scope of damage
Assessing the extent of damage a basement fire has caused is the first action that the basement fire restoration team will take. Along with extensive smoke damage, there may be water damage from the home fire sprinkler system or efforts of the firefighters. As a result, structural damage will be assessed. After a thorough assessment, they should draft a plan on the clean up process to ensure that your home is safe. The cost of damage to the basement will be considered. When the cost is known, an estimate of how much the repairs will cost will then be made.
3. Cost of repair
The cost of basement fire damage repair depends on the type of damage. An assessment is done to determine the cost.
Smoke damage is the most common type of restoration work that needs to be done. It is also the most expensive. The average cost of fixing smoke damage depends on its extent and the number of rooms affected.
Basement fires can also cause floods if pipes are damaged. This can increase the cost of restoration work. The cost of a light flood will surely be different from heavy flooding. The cost of repair depends on the method(s) of water and smoke removal, and this does not even include the cost of replacing damaged objects.
The Job Of A Basement Fire Damage Restoration Company
Firefighters are the first responders in terms of fire damage to your basement. Thereafter, you will talk with your insurance company and a restoration contractor. The bulk of the work will be done by this contractor, and their job is twofold. They will help clean up the mess and also put measures in place to prevent further damage.
Depending on the laws of your state and the licensing of the company, other home repairs may need to be done as well. You may choose to go with the restoration contractor provided by your insurance company. However, you are not compelled to work with the contractor if you do not want to.
Also, be sure to show your insurance representative and/or contractor any damage you captured in videos or photos. This will ensure that both parties have the same information.
The insurance company and the contractor will both provide their perspective on the damage. They will draw up a contract for you to sign; Work can commence as soon as the contract is signed.
How You Can Clean Up After Fire Damage In A Basement
Although the job of handling fire damage in a basement is for the restoration company to do, you can get in on the process. Beginning the process by starting the cleaning can potentially reduce costs. However, you may not be able to do it like the professionals.
Smoke damage to fabrics and walls is the best area to focus on when doing part of the job yourself. Use small amounts of sodium phosphate or bleach to wash objects with removable covers. Doing so will help remove the smell of smoke from these materials. However, ensure that you check the washing instructions so that you do not damage the fabric further. Mix warm water with detergent to remove damage from smoke and soot on walls. Protect your hands by using rubber gloves and use a sponge or cloth.
Conclusion
Fire in the basement can be extremely dangerous. In case your basement is damaged by fire, it is recommended that you hire a professional basement restoration company like Arko Restoration of Blaine, MN, to do the necessary cleanup. Arko’s expert team is equipped with the latest tools and can restore your basement to look good again; Call Arko Restoration at 763-434-2756 for assistance.