Fire Damage Restoration Guide

Comprehensive guide to fire damage restoration for Denver homes. Learn the recovery process, insurance claims, and what to expect during rebuilding.

Safety Warning

Never enter a fire-damaged structure until cleared by the fire department. Even after the fire is out, there may be structural hazards, toxic fumes, and hidden hot spots. Wear protective equipment if you must enter.

Immediate Steps After a Fire

1

Wait for Clearance

Do not enter until fire department declares the structure safe.

2

Contact Insurance

Report the fire to your insurance company within 24 hours.

3

Secure the Property

Board up windows and doors to prevent theft and weather damage.

4

Document Everything

Photograph and video all damage before any cleanup begins.

5

Don't Clean Yet

Improper cleaning can set stains permanently. Wait for professionals.

6

Salvage What You Can

Remove undamaged items to prevent further smoke damage.

Types of Fire Damage

Structural Fire Damage

Description

Damage to the building's structure including framing, walls, roof, and foundation.

Restoration Approach

May require partial or complete demolition and rebuilding. Structural engineer assessment often needed.

Typical Timeline

Weeks to months

Smoke & Soot Damage

Description

Residue from combustion that coats surfaces and permeates porous materials.

Restoration Approach

Professional cleaning, sealing, and repainting. Some materials may need replacement.

Typical Timeline

Days to weeks

Water Damage (from firefighting)

Description

Water used to extinguish fire causes secondary damage to floors, walls, and belongings.

Restoration Approach

Water extraction, drying, and potentially mold prevention treatments.

Typical Timeline

3-5 days for drying

Odor Damage

Description

Smoke odor penetrates fabrics, wood, and other porous materials.

Restoration Approach

Thermal fogging, ozone treatment, or hydroxyl generators. May require sealing surfaces.

Typical Timeline

Days to weeks

Professional Restoration Process

Phase 1

Emergency Services

  • Board-up and tarping
  • Water extraction
  • Pack-out of salvageable items
  • Initial debris removal
Phase 2

Damage Assessment

  • Structural inspection
  • Content inventory
  • Insurance documentation
  • Restoration plan development
Phase 3

Smoke & Soot Removal

  • HEPA vacuuming
  • Dry sponge cleaning
  • Wet cleaning of surfaces
  • Air scrubbing
Phase 4

Deodorization

  • Thermal fogging
  • Ozone treatment
  • Hydroxyl generation
  • Sealing if needed
Phase 5

Restoration & Rebuild

  • Demolition of damaged materials
  • Structural repairs
  • Electrical and plumbing work
  • Drywall and finishing
Phase 6

Final Cleaning

  • Deep cleaning of all surfaces
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  • Content restoration
  • Final walkthrough

Insurance Claim Tips

Document everything with photos and video before touching anything
Make a detailed inventory of damaged items with approximate values
Keep all receipts for emergency expenses (hotel, food, clothing)
Get multiple restoration estimates before committing
Understand your policy's ACV vs. replacement cost coverage
Don't sign anything from your insurance company without reviewing carefully
Consider hiring a public adjuster for large claims
Keep a log of all communications with your insurance company

Need Help With Other Restoration?

Learn about water damage, mold remediation, and storm damage restoration.

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