Do I Have to Move Out After a Fire?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Do I have to move out after a fire?

A fire in your home can cause serious damage. Your home and many of the things in it may be damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water. Things not damaged by the fire still may be ruined by smoke and may end up soggy with water used to put out the fire. Firefighters may have broken windows and cut holes in the roof to slow the fire’s growth. They also may have to cut holes in your walls to make sure that the fire is entirely out and not hidden in the walls. 

Entering your home can cause further damage to the structure. Be very careful when entering not to touch or disturb the fire-damaged items.

When fire damages your Charlotte, NC home, you often can be unsure of what to do next. Fire damage can be dangerous, and life-changing. The fire department will determine if your home is safe to move back into after a fire. However, there are steps you can take to determine if it is necessary to move out of your home.

Take Care of Yourself and Your Family

Contact your local disaster relief service, they will help you after the fire to find food, clothing, medicine, and a place to stay. If you have pets, find and comfort them after a fire and be sure to keep them away from the house until clean-up has been completed to keep them safe. Do not enter your home unless the fire department says it is safe.

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Right away following a fire, it is important to contact your insurance agent and ask them what to do first. When you contact your insurance agent, ask and understand what is covered by your insurance. If you do not have insurance, organizations such as the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Community Groups can possibly assist you in restoration after a fire.

 SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County specializes in fire restoration. We remove any fire damage and clean and restore your personal items that may have been damaged. If you have experienced a fire in your home, give us a call any time, day or night at (704) 840-6112.