3 Steps To Take After a Commercial Fire

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

When fire damage occurs, it's important to call a professional as soon as possible so that we can get started right away!

3 Things To Do After A Commercial Fire

A fire can cause a tremendous amount of destruction to your business, even if you have a fire mitigation plan in place. After the blaze is out, you may be unsure of how to handle the fire damage. Here are three steps you should take following a commercial fire.

1. Call Your Insurance Adjuster

The first thing you should do is call your insurance company. The claims process often can take months, so you want to get it started as fast as possible and be ready to provide the necessary documentation to avoid delays. After you start your claim, your adjuster can refer you to a fire restoration company in Onalaska, WI, to begin the cleanup process.

2. Secure Your Business

The fire damage likely broke windows and burned holes through your property's ceiling and walls. If you leave those issues unaddressed, you could be opening your business to more harm from vandals and the weather.

To secure your property, seal off windows and holes in the walls by covering them with thick plywood. Place a tarp securely on the roof to prevent animals and rain from getting in.

Be mindful that a fire can weaken the structural integrity of your building, so never enter the premises without approval from the fire department.

3. Remove Your Belongings

Even if furniture, electronics and inventory don't have fire damage, they could still be destroyed when left to sit in a room filled with corrosive smoke and soot. To help protect what you can and mitigate your losses, remove your undamaged belongings as soon as possible. After you place your items in a storage facility or an off-site warehouse, have them professionally cleaned and restored.

While the fire restoration process might feel overwhelming, you don't have to handle it alone. Relying on the pros will have you back in business in no time.