After the Fire

Practical tips for what to do after you have had a fire.

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Property insurance

If you own the home, the first and most important step is contacting your insurance company or agent as soon as possible. If you are renting or leasing, contact the owner or management company. In either case, they will be able to provide you valuable information about the next steps and walk you through the process.

A restoration company such as Texas Fire Damage is able to provide detailed explanations to your insurance company to ensure that you are getting the best settlement possible. In addition, if you feel you are not being treated fairly by your insurance company, you have the right to hire an independent Public Adjustor.

A “fire report” will be available from your Fire Department a few days after the fire.

Securing the premises

After the Fire Department personnel have left, the house becomes your responsibility. If you cannot stay in the house, retrieve all valuables. It is important that doors, windows and any other points of entry are secured as much as possible. Our company can board up windows and doors and also cover holes so that the property is secure and protected from the elements. These services are not billed to you but will be billed your insurance company directly.

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A Place to stay

If you are not able to stay in the home, you will need to secure temporary housing. Only your insurance company can comment on exactly what is covered in your specific policy, however a typical homeowners’ policy provides for temporary housing costs.

Texas Fire Damage works with a number of Real Estate professionals and owners of short-term housing. We will work diligently to help you find a “home away from home” as soon as possible.

REMINDER: If you move, be sure to notify:

  • Post Office

  • Banks

  • Cable Company

  • Credit Card Companies

  • Subscriptions

  • School District

Construction

Remember that in most cases, the Fire Department will turn off utilities such as electric and gas for their own safety as well as yours. This also prevents further damage to the structure and its contents. DO NOT turn utilities back on. These services can not be restored until the proper repairs have been made by a licensed contractor. Also keep in mind that electrical, plumbing, mechanical and building permits must be obtained to ensure that the building is repaired in compliance with current codes. Only after the appropriate repairs have been made will the utility provider restore those services.

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Considering your Options

Your insurance company will help you in the process of repairing or rebuilding the house.  This process will require close coordination with your insurance company, Texas Fire Damage (or the restoration company of your choice) and city officials. A good insurance company and restoration company will do all they can to ease the burden of rebuilding. However, our company provides an additional option which may allow you to avoid this process altogether. As you consider which is the best option for you, see our article: “Rebuild or Sell?”

Tax adjustments

Property that is extensively damaged may qualify for re-evaluation and a reduction in property tax assessment. To qualify, you must file an application called a “Report of Decreased Value” with the County Assessor’s Office.

Uninsured loss of property, both real estate and personal, may entitle you to deductions on your income tax. Information is available from the local Internal Revenue Service office and your accountant.