Fire Damage Restoration
No one wants to experience this type of event but unfortunately it happens all to often. Damage from fire can range anywhere from a minor event with minimal repairs needed to a devastating complete loss of property and contents. Fire damage restoration can be a tricky business. Emotions often run high for the insured, the fire department must investigate the cause, insurance adjusters have to determine causes and coverages and the Restoration Contractor and Insurance Adjuster have to agree on the scope of damage as well as it's associated value. This process can take quite a while if those involved are not experienced in navigating this process. In the event of a major loss (where the property is not habitable) alternate living arrangements (and expenses) will need to be arranged for repairs to take place.
After the Fire Department has done their work, some guidelines to follow;
1. Contact your insurance companies loss department immediately. If you are not sure who to call then contact your insurance agent and ask for his / her assistance in getting your claim process started.
2. Are temporary repairs needed to now protect your property from the elements? Windows and doors may need to be secured or boarded up, tarps may need to cover a damaged roof, etc. Your insurance company can often arrange for this, recommend a contractor for this or you may hire an experienced restoration contractor on your own to handle this work.
2. Read and understand your policy and your coverages. Example; some policies might not contain building code upgrades. If your home was built many years ago it may not meet current building code requirements. Your fire damage Restoration Contractor will likely need to obtain a building permit in order to begin repairs and will then be required to perform the repairs in accordance with current building codes. Does your policy cover this and if not, who is responsible for paying for the code upgrades?
3. You may be approached immediately by a contractor claiming he / she can handle all the fire damage repairs per the insurance companies estimate, "just sign here". It's possible this is a reputable contractor but you may want to do your homework before signing on immediately. Make sure you hire a Fire Damage Restoration Contractor who not only has a good reputation but provides detailed estimates that your insurance company understands. There are industry wide accepted estimating software packages that insurance companies and Restoration Contractors use that contain accepted (and up to date) pricing databases. Why is this important? It makes the process of detailing the scope of work needed to repair your property to "pre-loss" condition and helps to streamline and accelerate the process from estimate, agreed upon scope and value, beginning repairs, closing out repairs and recovering any depreciation.
Everyone involved in this process should have the same goal, restoring your property completely and getting you moved back in as quickly and efficiently as possible. If this occurs, everyone wins in an otherwise unfortunate occurance. For more information on our services and qualifications click on the "Restoration" tab above. If you need immediate assistance or just some guidance please call our office at 703-591-2830. If it is an after hours emergency your call will be forwarded to one of our emergency claim representatives who will assist you.
