Questions to Ask Your Fire Damage Cleanup Company

A fire is a harrowing experience, causing tremendous losses in money , possessions and sometimes even lives. It takes weeks or even months to pick up the pieces and move on. This takes a lot of cooperation between you, your family, and even the fire damage cleanup contractor you hire.

This stage can be both urgently important and overwhelming so it is necessary to stay calm and think constructively.  As soon as everyone is safe, you may need to talk to your insurance agent and the fire cleanup company.

If you are still at a loss for words, here are questions you should ask your fire damage cleanup company. This will help you prepare for what is needed and understand the range of damage on your house.

1. How long will cleanup take?

Oftentimes it is better to stay elsewhere while the house is being cleaned up . You might need to live at a hotel, apartment or in homes of friends or family. Having a time estimate of the restoration will help you plan this and inform the necessary people.

2. How much will it cost and why?

It is your right as a customer to receive a breakdown of charges to you . It is also important for you to ask why these fees are being charged. Some restoration companies overcharge you by including items you don’t need such as extra supplies and hiring fees.

3. Will this be covered by insurance?

Many restoration companies work directly with your insurance company to file claims, saving time and effort on your end.

4. Which of my items can I take home, and which should be cleaned?

Some items may be permanently damaged. You might find yourself needing to let go of them even if you do not wish to. Also, items such as paintings, antiques and collectibles may require specific cleaning solvents and restoration processes.

5. What else can you do for me?

You might be surprised to know that your fire damage cleanup company offers services other than the actual cleanup itself. This includes electronics repair, smoke damage cleanup, and home reconstruction.

Many fire cleanup companies also offer water damage restoration which you will have to face if your possessions were affected by water from fire trucks.