How To Mitigate Invisible Fire Damage

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

A partial fire loss to your business in Brentwood, CA, is still devastating.

Flames damaged your commercial property in Brentwood, CA. Afterward, many structures and contents seem fine to the naked eye. However, not all fire loss is obvious. How can you tell what needs to be restored?

What Is a Partial Loss?

When a fire damages but does not completely destroy a building, it is considered a partial loss. In this instance, a fire restoration company inspects structures that may be impacted, including those hidden from view.

• Interior systems such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC
• Interior structures including the frame, walls, ceilings, and flooring
• Exterior structures like roofing, siding, foundation, and windows

What Causes Damage in a Fire?

When your contents are burnt, it is easy to identify the cause as flames. There are other types of fire loss that occur when your building catches fire. Restoration companies use professional-grade equipment to clean the resulting damage found in structures, contents, and air.

• Smoke damage is not always evident but requires attention nonetheless. Smoke leaves a residue in the HVAC system, on furniture, in carpeting, and in other areas of your business.

• Water damage is common due to fire sprinklers or hoses that put out the fire. This type of damage should be addressed immediately to prevent secondary problems, such as mold.
• Extreme heat may cause invisible damage if your business was in close proximity to a fire. High temperatures may impact roofing, iron or steel structures, pipes, or window frames.

What Are the Next Steps?

After a fire ravages your property, consider your safety first. Once you are safe, plan for restoration efforts as soon as possible.

• Contact your property insurance agent to confirm coverage and file a claim. Coverage typically includes restoring the property to a uniform, consistent result. Therefore, partially damaged items are matched or replaced.
• Arrange for a fire restoration company to inspect the property and begin the process of remediation.

A partial fire loss to your business in Brentwood, CA, is still devastating. Even if the damage is not obvious, a thorough inspection and proper fire restoration procedures are key to returning to preloss condition.