Steps to take in the aftermath of a commercial fire

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

If your business has ever experienced a fire then, you understand how devastating the aftermath can be.  Issues created by flames and soot, additionally your business can suffer more loss due to water damage that occurred when firefighters put out the flames.  Mix in lingering smoke odor and you are looking at a lot of issues to deal with after the final flame is extinguished.  No need to panic. When a fire impacts your business, the best thing to do is to follow the steps listed below that will help you get things back to normal as quickly as possible.

• Be sure to document any damage- Once the firefighters give the okay to reenter the building, go inside and assess the damage. Don’t remove anything. Instead, take note of the damage and document it with pictures, videos, and lists of what you lost in the blaze. Don’t move anything or try to salvage items before your insurance adjuster is able to assess the damage and document it for business purposes. Simply taking note of the damage and preparing it for your insurance company is what is needed at this point.
• Contact your insurance agent– Call your insurance provider immediately. If it is after business hours, call the corporate number or get the claim started via the corresponding app if possible.  Informing your insurance company as quickly as possible will help with the claims process.  Even while firefighters are still battling the blaze, placing a call to your insurance company is a good idea.  The SERVPRO associate on-site can assist you with this.

• Contact your local SERVPRO- We want you to be able to get back to business just as badly as you do. At SERVPRO our employees are certified experts who know exactly what needs to be done to get your business back on track following a fire.  Other damage restoration work we can do for you and your business includes Commercial Water Damage, Board Ups, Content Restoration, and Biohazard Restoration.

To get in touch with SERVPRO, simply call one of our friendly staff at 217-355-0077 24/7 and we will send someone over to help you with what you need.  We are in the business of helping people!