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Feb 01, 2025

5 Most Common Mistakes in Fire Damage Restoration and How to Avoid Them

5 Most Common Mistakes in Fire Damage Restoration and How to Avoid Them

Restoring a property after a fire isn't as simple as cleaning up the mess. It's a complex process that involves much more–like assessing the building's structural safety, dealing with smoke and soot damage, and addressing any water damage caused by firefighting efforts.

Unfortunately, many homeowners and property managers make costly mistakes during the restoration process, which can lead to higher expenses and a longer recovery time.

In this blog post, we'll walk you through the five most common mistakes people make when restoring a fire-damaged property. We'll also share practical, budget-friendly tips to help you avoid them.

Mistake 1: Delaying the Restoration Process

The first hours and days following a fire are crucial. Delays can lead to more extensive damage, as soot and ash are acidic and can further erode surfaces and materials over time. Moreover, water used in firefighting can seep into materials, which can lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly.

Steps to Avoid Delays

  • Contact Professionals Immediately: Reach out to qualified fire damage restoration experts like On-Site Specialty Cleaning + Restoration. Our immediate response can help prevent further damage.

  • Begin Cleanup ASAP: Even as insurance claims are processed, start clearing debris and ventilating the property.

  • Prioritize Water Extraction: Focus on removing water and initiating the drying process to prevent mold growth.

Mistake 2: Choosing Inadequate Cleaning Methods

Using the wrong cleaning methods for soot and smoke can result in permanent stains and odors. For instance, a homeowner in Warren attempted to clean soot-covered walls using a standard detergent, only to find the dark smears had spread and embedded deep into the wallpaper. This mistake multiplied the restoration cost, which could have been avoided with professional cleaning techniques.

Effective Cleaning Strategies

  • Hire Specialists: Professionals such as those at On-Site Specialty Cleaning + Restoration use industry-grade cleaners and tools for different types of fire residues.

  • Test Cleaning Products: If you're going to attempt self-cleaning, test products on small areas to ensure they don't worsen the damage.

  • Consider Dry Cleaning Sponges: For surface soot, use special sponges to lift residues without spreading them.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Air Quality Issues

Fire leaves behind harmful particles that can impact health long after the flames are out. Ignoring indoor air quality is a common mistake that can lead to respiratory issues for occupants. For example, it was reported that an office building in Detroit suffered a fire. The owners overlooked ventilation issues and later faced significant health claims from employees due to lingering smoke odors and particulates.

Improving Air Quality

  • Install Air Scrubbers: These devices remove airborne particles and improve indoor air quality.

  • Perform a Comprehensive Air Test: Understand the pollutants present and address them accordingly.

  • Replace HVAC Filters: Install high-efficiency filters to trap any remaining smoke particles.

Mistake 4: Overlooking the Complexity of Insurance Claims

Navigating insurance claims after a fire can be complex. Mistakes in documenting damages or miscommunication with insurers can lead to reduced compensation and out-of-pocket expenses.

Tips for Streamlining Claims

  • Document Thoroughly: Take comprehensive photos and videos of all damages as soon as it is safe to do so.

  • Understand Your Policy: Having clear knowledge of what your policy covers can prevent unwelcome surprises.

  • Consult a Public Adjuster: These professionals can offer insights on how you can maximize your claim.

Mistake 5: Skipping Structural Inspections

Fires can compromise the structural elements of a building, which can lead to safety hazards if not properly inspected and repaired.

Ensuring Structural Safety

  • Engage Structural Engineers: After an extensive fire, hire a structural engineer to assess the safety of the property.

  • Review Building Permits: Ensure any repair work aligns with local regulations and safety standards.

  • Schedule Regular Inspections: Conducting regular checks even after the restoration is finished can prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Restoring a property after fire damage is fraught with potential mistakes that can increase costs and affect your property's recovery. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save time, reduce expenses, and ensure safety and peace of mind.

At On-Site Specialty Cleaning + Restoration, we offer expert guidance and services to navigate these complexities and provide seamless recovery. Don't let avoidable mistakes prolong your property's restoration. Contact us today to ensure a swift path to recovery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, lithium batteries are generally safe when used, stored, and charged properly. They are widely used in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, and more because they are lightweight and store a lot of energy.

However, they can become dangerous under certain conditions:

  • Overcharging or using the wrong charger
  • Exposure to heat or direct sunlight
  • Physical damage (like punctures or crushing)
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Poor-quality or counterfeit batteries

If something goes wrong, a lithium battery can overheat, catch fire, or even explode — this is known as thermal runaway.

Yes, a battery can start a fire under certain conditions. This typically happens when:

  1. Short Circuiting: If the battery terminals are connected directly (e.g., by metal), it can cause a short circuit, generating heat that may ignite nearby materials.
  2. Overcharging: Charging a battery beyond its capacity, especially lithium-ion batteries, can cause overheating and thermal runaway, leading to fire.
  3. Physical Damage: Puncturing, crushing, or damaging a battery can release internal chemicals and cause a fire or explosion.
  4. Exposure to High Heat: Placing a battery near a heat source or in direct sunlight for long periods can increase the risk of fire.
  5. Manufacturing Defects: Faulty batteries may have internal issues that can lead to spontaneous ignition.

This is particularly a concern with lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops, and e-bikes.

Yes, fire damage restoration services are designed to address smoke odors and eliminate them from your property. Our team at On-Site utilizes advanced techniques such as thermal fogging, ozone treatment, and air scrubbing to effectively neutralize smoke odors and improve indoor air quality. Additionally, we may recommend specialized cleaning methods and treatments to remove smoke residue from surfaces and materials, ensuring a thorough restoration of your property.

While DIY methods may provide temporary relief, professional smoke odor removal is recommended for thorough and long-lasting results.

Yes, lithium batteries can catch fire even when not in use, although it is rare. This usually happens due to internal faults or environmental factors.

No, lithium batteries do not only catch fire when charging. While charging is a common time for fires to occur—especially if overcharging, overheating, or using a faulty charger— fires can also happen during use, storage, or even when the battery is idle.

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