Safety first — don't re-enter too soon
Don't go back into a fire-damaged home until the fire department says it's safe. Structures, wiring, and air quality can all be hazardous even after the flames are out. Once cleared, limit what you touch — soot is acidic and spreads easily.
The first steps
- Contact your insurance to open a claim as soon as possible
- Secure the property — a restoration company can board up windows and tarp the roof to keep out weather and intruders
- Document everything with photos and video before anything is moved or cleaned
- Don't clean soot yourself — improper cleaning smears and sets it permanently
- Call a fire restoration pro — fast, correct soot and odor cleanup saves far more of your home and belongings
Why speed protects your home
Acidic soot etches metal, glass, and finishes within hours, and smoke odor works deeper the longer it sits. The faster professional cleanup starts, the more is salvageable. We respond 24/7 and coordinate the whole claim so you can focus on your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can smoke-damaged belongings be saved?
Many can — with prompt, professional cleaning and deodorizing. The sooner cleanup starts, the more we can restore rather than replace.
Who pays for securing the home after a fire?
Emergency board-up and tarping are typically covered by your policy as loss mitigation. We document it for your claim.
Dealing with damage right now? We offer 24/7 emergency water damage restoration and mold remediation across Lancaster County. Call (717) 910-6114 for a free quote.