What To Know About Partial Fire Losses

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Partial fire loss in Brookhaven, GA

Ways To Handle Fire Damage

Not every fire completely destroys a property. You could instead end up with a partial fire loss. Here are some tips for handling this type of loss.

Inspections

Even if you only suffered a partial loss to your commercial property, you should hire structural engineers or contractors to survey the building and estimate the costs of repairs. Do not rely on the insurance adjuster's inspection alone. Choose a specialist who will survey each of these areas:

• Windows
• Structural iron and steel
• Heating and plumbing systems
• Roof
• Interior walls
• Siding, concrete and stucco

Smoke Cleanup
A partial loss often includes ash and smoke damage. Smoke can harm porous items, including curtains and rugs. It can also discolor tiles and marble.
Fire restoration professionals in Brookhaven, GA, should be able to repair some of these items. You may have to replace other things, however. Either way, your insurance may help you pay for the fire loss.
The insurance adjuster may tell you that a deep cleaning is not necessary. However, this is just the insurance company's way of trying to save money. Insist on a thorough remediation.

Mold Cleanup

The water used to suppress the fire can cause mold growth inside wood and drywall. Get the property inspected right away to see if you have a mold problem. You should also check your insurance policy to find out if it has a mold exclusion.

Landscape Cleanup

Insurance does not just apply to the inside of your commercial property. The smoke and heat may contaminate soil and kill your outdoor plants. Harmed plants may not die right away, so keep your insurance claim open for a few months after the fire.

A partial fire loss can include smoke and soot damage. Your landscaping could be harmed, as well. Thankfully, you can use your insurance to pay for some of these repairs. The above tips should help you get your property back to normal as soon as possible.