What to Do Immediately After Fire Damage to Your Home

Experiencing a fire in your home is devastating. Once the flames are out and the fire department gives the all-clear, the recovery process begins. What you do in the first hours and days after a fire can significantly impact both the restoration outcome and your insurance claim.

Safety First

Do not re-enter your home until the fire department has declared it safe. Even after flames are extinguished, structural damage, toxic fumes from burned materials, and compromised electrical systems can create serious hazards. If you're allowed back in, wear protective gear including an N95 mask and avoid touching soot-covered surfaces with bare hands.

Document Everything

Before any cleanup begins, thoroughly document all damage with photos and video. Walk through every room and capture the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, furniture, and personal belongings. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim and ensures nothing is overlooked during the adjustment process.

Contact Your Insurance Company and a Restoration Professional

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Simultaneously, contact a professional fire damage restoration company. Soot and smoke residue are acidic and will continue to damage surfaces the longer they remain. Water used to fight the fire can also cause secondary damage including mold growth. Professional restoration teams can stabilize the property, begin cleanup, and work directly with your insurance adjuster to ensure a smooth claims process.

Don't Attempt DIY Cleanup

Fire damage restoration requires specialized equipment and training. Attempting to clean soot, smoke, or water damage yourself can actually make things worse—spreading contamination, driving residues deeper into materials, or creating additional safety hazards. Trust the professionals to handle the restoration properly.