Fire Damage Restoration in Towson, MD

Baltimore Fire damage restoration should always be handled by professionals as it affects the safety of the building and its occupants. When a major fire occurs, there is always some amount of damage to the building structure and indoor air quality. A professional fire damage restoration service like First & Last Restoration reduces the risk of future structural issues as well as smoke inhalation health problems. Contact us right away to get the restoration process started.

Fire Damage Restoration Near Me

Have you been impacted by Fire Damage? Fire damage restoration is the process of repairing and restoring a property that has been damaged by a fire. The goal of fire damage restoration is to return the property to its pre-loss condition as much as possible, while also addressing any safety concerns and ensuring that the structure is stable and secure.

The Importance Of Professional Fire Damage Restoration

Professional fire damage restoration is essential for various reasons:

Ensures the property is safe to enter. Property restoration services provide the expertise and equipment necessary to evaluate a home or business premises and determine if it is safe for habitation, thereby minimizing the risk of injury.
Salvage and restore items. Even if a property endured a fire, it doesn’t mean the contents are all lost to heat, smoke, and water damage. Professionals offer specialized cleaning methods to remove soot, smoke, and water from objects and, in some cases, can restore floors, countertops, and other surfaces.
Assist in insurance claims. Professional fire damage restoration experts can also file with your insurer on your behalf, increasing the likelihood of a payout and ensuring you receive fair compensation to cover your loss.
Reduce stress and trauma from experiencing a fire. Fire damage can cause lasting psychological damage. However, remediation experts increase the likelihood of returning it to its original condition.

In summary, professional fire damage restoration services are essential because they help to render your property safe. If you don’t use them, you could put yourself and your possessions at risk, incurring further losses.

Fire Damage Restoration Process

The fire damage restoration process typically involves the following steps:

Assessing the damage: The first step in the fire damage restoration process is to assess the extent of the damage and identify any safety concerns. This may involve inspecting the affected areas and using specialized equipment to determine the extent of the damage.
Emergency services: If the property is not safe to enter, emergency services such as boarding up windows and doors and tarping the roof may be necessary to secure the property and prevent further damage.
Water damage remediation: If the fire was extinguished using water, it is likely that there will be water damage in addition to the fire damage. Water damage remediation involves removing any standing water and drying out the affected area to prevent further damage.
Soot and smoke removal: Soot and smoke can cause additional damage if not properly removed, so it is important to remove these contaminants as soon as possible. This may involve using specialized cleaning products and techniques to remove soot and smoke from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
Repair and reconstruction: After the affected area has been cleaned and dried, any necessary repairs and reconstruction can be completed to restore the property to its pre-loss condition. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged materials, such as drywall, flooring, and cabinetry.
Final inspection: Once all of the above steps have been completed, a final inspection of the property will be conducted to ensure that it has been properly restored and that there are no remaining issues.

Tips For Fire Prevention

Fire prevention is essential for protecting your loved ones, customers, and community. Here’s what do to:

Understand the risks you face. Find out why fires are likely to occur in your area and take steps to mitigate them, such as clearing brush and debris from around your property.
Don’t smoke indoors. Cigarettes, cigars, and electronic smoking devices are all leading causes of fires. If you need to smoke, go outdoors and thoroughly stub out tobacco products before placing them in the trash.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Keep a range of extinguishers on your property for different kinds of fires, including water-, CO2-, and powder-based units.
Practice safe cooking. Don’t leave cooking unattended. Keep any flammable materials, such as dishcloths, away from open flames. Reduce how much you use deep-fat fryers and only use high-temperature appliances from reputable brands.
Observe electrical safety standards. Get electricians to inspect your appliances regularly to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Avoid or reduce the use of candles. Never leave candles unattended. Always keep them away from flammable materials, preferably on metal trays.
Install smoke detectors. Ensure you have an early warning system that can tell you if a fire is underway, letting you put it out quickly before it gets more serious.

How Professional Fire Restoration Services Handle Personal Belonging

Sometimes, professional fire damage restoration services in Towson can salvage personal belongings affected by flames, smoke, water, and heat, such as electronics, clothes, and furniture. Here’s how the process works:

Evaluate the severity of the damage. Fire restoration experts use their expertise to see if they can restore items or if owners need to discard them.
Use specialized equipment to restore items. Professionals then use air movers, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and other techniques to rescue items affected by water. For items affected by smoke or fire damage, the process usually involves cleaning and deodorizing. In these cases, experts use ozone generators that neutralize smoke particles in materials. They may also recommend taking upholstery and other fabrics for professional washing and cleaning.
Electronic restoration. Lastly, fire restoration providers may recommend electronics restoration. Here, technicians carefully evaluate each item and then use a combination of parts replacement and cleaning to restore units to their original condition.

Does Insurance Cover Fire Damage?

Fire damage is typically covered by insurance policies that include property coverage, such as homeowners insurance or commercial property insurance. These policies generally cover damage to the structure of the building and the contents of the building caused by a fire, as well as any necessary repairs and reconstruction.

However, it is important to note that coverage for fire damage may be limited or excluded in some cases, such as if the fire was caused by an excluded event or if the policy has a specific exclusion for fire damage. It is always a good idea to carefully review your insurance policy to understand what is covered in the event of a fire.

If you have experienced fire damage and believe that you are covered under your insurance policy, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Our professional fire damage restoration company can work with your insurance company to help ensure that your claim is processed smoothly and efficiently.

Emergency Board-Up Services

Emergency board-up services are another component of professional fire damage restoration. They help to prevent further damage to the building. Here’s how:

Protect against vandalism. Vandals may use fire damage as an excuse to cause destruction, reducing the value of your property further.
Theft. Fire damage can also disable security systems, making theft more likely.
Exposure to the elements. Fire causes damage to walls, roofs, and windows, increasing the potential of rain, wind, and wildlife to cause damage. Board-up services help to prevent this, reducing repair costs.
Expedite insurance claims process. Emergency board-up services speed up processing by fulfilling insurers’ requirements. By boarding up their property, owners can demonstrate they are taking steps to mitigate further damage and comply with their policy document.
Reduced liability risks. Lastly, emergency board-up services help to prevent people from occupying the property and injuring themselves.

Odor Removal

Odor removal is a critical component of the fire damage restoration process. Even after firefighters put out a fire, soot, and smoke particles can remain in the air and linger on surfaces, causing unpleasant odors that are hazardous to health.

Smoke odor is challenging to remove because it can penetrate porous materials in most buildings, such as fabrics, upholstery, and walls. Moreover, these odors can persist for months, even if the room has good ventilation, causing various health problems for the occupants.

That’s why odor removal is essential for fire damage restoration in Towson, MD. Professional services use specialized equipment and advanced techniques to eliminate smoke odors, even in heavily-damaged interior spaces. Options include thermal fogging, ozone treatments, and air scrubbers to neutralize and remove smoke particles.

The health consequences of post-fire odors can be severe. Building occupants may experience eye, nose, and throat irritation, asthma, COPD, and allergies. They can also experience headaches, nausea, and dizziness in some situations if left untreated.

Therefore, odor removal is critical for fire damage restoration. Done correctly, it ensures the comfort and safety of property occupations, helping to restore it to its pre-loss condition.

Safety Precautions To Take After a Fire

The following are some safety precautions you should take after a fire:

Don’t enter the property until fire crews deem it safe
Don’t touch any electrical or HVAC systems damaged or compromised due to fire
Don’t consume any food or drink exposed to smoke
Keep children and pets away from the property until it has been thoroughly restored
Wear protective clothing when looking for or salvaging belongings

Common Causes of Fire Damage

There are many common causes of fire damage in homes and buildings, including:

Cooking fires: Unattended cooking is a common cause of residential fires, particularly in the kitchen.
Electrical fires: Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring or overloaded outlets, can cause fires.
Heating equipment: Heating equipment, such as furnaces and space heaters, can malfunction and cause fires.
Candles: Unattended candles can start fires if they come into contact with flammable materials.
Smoking: Carelessly disposed of smoking materials, such as cigarettes, can start fires.
Natural disasters: Fires can be caused by natural disasters such as lightning strikes or wildfires.

It is important to be aware of these common causes of fire damage and take appropriate precautions to prevent fires from occurring. This may include properly maintaining electrical and heating systems, following safety guidelines when cooking and using candles, and disposing of smoking materials safely.

Fire Damage Restoration FAQs

I just had fire damage in my home, what should I do?

If you have recently experienced fire damage in your home, it is important to take the following steps to ensure the safety of yourself and others and to begin the process of repairing and restoring your home:

Leave the property: If the fire has not been completely extinguished, or if the property is not safe to enter, it is important to leave the property immediately and call 911.

Contact your insurance company: Once you are safe, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process.

Secure the property: If the property is not safe to enter, it may be necessary to secure the property to prevent further damage. This may involve boarding up windows and doors and tarping the roof.

Salvage what you can: If it is safe to do so, you may be able to salvage some of your belongings by carefully removing them from the affected area. However, it is important to be cautious and not enter areas that may be unstable or unsafe.

Contact a fire damage restoration company: A professional fire damage restoration company can help assess the damage and determine the best course of action for repairing and restoring your home. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to effectively address the damage and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.

How long does fire damage restoration take?

The length of time it takes to complete fire damage restoration will depend on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the location and size of the affected area, and the type of materials and finishes that need to be repaired or replaced.

In general, fire damage restoration can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks or more, depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove furniture and other items from the affected area to allow for proper cleaning and restoration.

It is important to address fire damage as soon as possible to minimize the extent of the damage and prevent further damage from occurring. Our professional fire damage restoration company will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action to repair the damage and restore the affected area to its pre-loss condition. We have the necessary equipment and expertise to efficiently complete the restoration process and get your home or business back to normal.

How much does fire damage repair cost?

The cost of fire damage repair will depend on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the location and size of the affected area, and the type of materials and finishes that need to be repaired or replaced.

In general, the cost of fire damage repair can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousands of dollars for extensive damage. Some factors that may affect the cost of fire damage repair include:

The severity of the damage: More extensive damage will typically require more extensive repairs, which will increase the overall cost of the restoration.

The location and size of the affected area: Larger areas or areas that are difficult to access may require more time and resources to restore, which can increase the cost.

The type of materials and finishes that need to be repaired or replaced: Certain materials and finishes, such as hardwood floors or stone countertops, may be more expensive to repair or replace than others.

It is always best to contact our professional fire damage restoration company to assess the damage and provide a detailed estimate of the cost of the repair and restoration. We will be able to identify the source of the fire damage and determine the best course of action to repair the damage and prevent future issues.

Do I have to move out of my building while repairs are made?

Whether or not you will need to move out of your building while fire damage repairs are being made will depend on the extent of the damage and the safety of the building. In some cases, it may be possible to remain in the building while repairs are being made, particularly if the damage is limited to a specific area and the rest of the building is safe to occupy.

However, if the damage is extensive and the building is not safe to enter, it may be necessary to temporarily relocate until the repairs are complete. In these cases, it is important to follow the instructions of the fire damage restoration company and any other authorities, such as building inspectors, to ensure the safety of all occupants.

It is always a good idea to consult with our professional fire damage restoration company to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. We will be able to recommend the most effective and safest way to repair the damage and determine if it is necessary to temporarily relocate while the repairs are being made.

Can I clean up the fire damage myself?

It is not recommended to clean up fire damage yourself, as the process can be hazardous and may require specialized equipment and training. The remnants of a fire can contain toxic chemicals and particles that can be harmful to your health if not handled properly. It is best to hire a professional fire damage restoration company to handle the cleanup process, as they have the necessary equipment, training, and experience to safely and effectively restore your home. In addition, insurance policies often require that a professional restoration company be used in order to receive coverage for the damages. It is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and discuss your options for repair and restoration.

First & Last Restoration

5.0

Based on 70 reviews

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Courtney Spellacy

15:03 15 Nov 23

I love reviews, but never leave them. I have to leave a review for my experience with Marcellis, his team, and the business. I had to get four quotes for my job - and while all were in the same ballpark - the professionalism, responsiveness, and quality of the process and work with First and Last Restoration was head and shoulders above the rest.

Bri Jones

19:30 01 Nov 23

I had a great experience with First & Last Restoration. Everyone is informative and professional. You can tell they know what they are talking about, the crews are very proud of their certifications and schooling when you talk to them about it.They were tidy, efficient and thorough with their work in my business. We had a bad mold problem in the basement that went undetected for months.I would 100% recommend anyone to this company.

Lisa Sterling

00:15 31 Oct 23

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quincy , Mario and Charles were the technicians that performed the restoration work in my home after my sump pump backed up after a storm. They were informative, friendly and most importantly professional.They helped me to feel much better about the situation , I knew I was in good hands. I wish I could give First & Last and their employees 10 stars. The owner even checked in on the job, he was very smart and felt like he really cared about the job being done properly.

Mike Lowe

13:57 30 Oct 23

This team was amazing to work with. We Had a major flood in our home which then resulted in mold. They worked with my insurance company to document everything so it was covered.Quincy and Mario were very knowledgeable technicians and walked me through the whole process. I gave them full access to my unattended home and felt completely safe with them being there while we stayed in a hotel. 10/10 will recommend.

Michael Charles

13:21 21 Oct 23

Highly recommended for all home restoration needs. First and Last Restoration Service handled a significant sewer water damage repair at my brother-in-law's mom's house. Their team not only fixed the current issue but also spotted and resolved a previous damage. What sets them apart is their thorough approach—they don't just remove the damage, but also undertake the necessary repair and finishing work, ensuring the home is restored to pristine condition. Their responsiveness and timely communication were remarkable..

Kia Pearson

16:42 18 Jun 23

Very professional company. Went above and beyond to wrap up my items in plastic to make sure nothing got damaged. They even moved all my furniture and items out of the room they were working in. They did an amazing job removing all the sewage from my home. I highly recommend them!

Jenny Sataloff

03:48 01 Jun 23

Professional, friendly, efficient - they communicate well with the homeowners and the insurance company and provide prompt thorough service. A+

Deidra Stockton

22:41 31 May 23

Wow!! What a wonderful professional on time business. I am so pleased with their services I will be using them again in the near future.

Tameka Payton

02:49 13 May 23

Marcellis and his team are absolutely amazing. They were so helpful! They stepped in and spoke with the insurance agent on my behalf. My insurance adjuster from Liberty Mutual had experience working with Marcellis. She even acknowledged how great of a person he is, which says A LOT coming from an insurance adjuster!!!!Stellar performance, absolute professional.

Orion Burcham

17:57 22 Feb 23

Excellent service - Marcellis from Disinfect-It was knowledgeable, professional, and generous with his time.My wife and I just bought a new house, only to find a mold-like substance covering the walls of the attic. Our first home inspector (not a remediation expert) was sure it was mold, and charged us over $100 for a single tape test. The results of that test were vague, and he concluded by advising that we should “not use the attic.” - an unrealistic and unprofessional suggestion.Following this bad experience, we reached out to Disinfect-It Emergency Restoration for a proper mold inspection. And they delivered!Marcellis (the owner) brought his superior knowledge to bare. He arrived on time, and did a thorough, efficient examination. Not only did he run some initial air tests in the attic (leaving us with more information in one day than we got from the previous lab report), but he also told us that the substance may not actually be mold. He referred us to an industrial mold inspector, and even called him on the spot for an initial review of our attic by video.Since then, we’ve had the specialist come by, and we are waiting on the final (new) lab results. Thanks to Disinfect-It’s experience and professionalism, we may avoid paying for costly remediation that isn’t actually needed.We look forward to working with Marcellis and company again, should the need arise.Thank you, Disinfect-It!

Francine Rodney

20:01 07 Dec 22

I had to call Disinfect-it for water Damage, Clean up and Restoration in which a Respectful Responder named Marcellis Mosby answers the call and out ASAP.He was very easy to talk to, very understanding and sympathetic about our situation. He was willing to help us Restored the damages and take care of our problems.I will definitely call Disinfect-it again if God forbid I should have such unfortunate experience again. I'm Recommending Disinfect-it and the team headed by Marcellis Mosby to anyone who has find themselves in such unfortunate situation like I did.Marcellis Mosby to the RESCUE, U BET ON HIM....FRANCINE R in MD

Tamara Howard

02:04 26 Oct 22

Marcellis and his Disinfect-It team restored my basement after my hot water heater burst. From the first contact until the job was done, they were professional, on-time, knowledgeable, fast, and provided excellent customer service! The water damage from the water heater was much more extensive than I realized. They identified all of the affected areas (carpet, structure, and items), only removed the drywall, studs, and trim that were damaged, and ensured that everything was thoroughly dry before starting the rebuild. They completed the job much faster than I expected. The drywall and trim replacements were done so expertly, that I cannot tell where the old and new begin and end. I was so relieved and pleased. They bought the exact paint (color and brand) originally used on the affected walls for a perfect match. Marcellis also worked with my insurance company to ensure that the work was covered. I am so pleased with Disinfect-It and encourage you to hire them if you'd like your water damaged space to look like new!

Keith Savage

16:12 10 Sep 22

I cannot say enough amazing things about this company. I did not expect to be so pleasantly surprised by the service, professionalism, and excellence of a water remediation company. Mr. Mosby and his team from start to finish are well equipped to handle everything you need. I am a very stern customer and not easily impressed and I am highly impressed with this company. If I could give it 10 stars I would.

KARYES THOMAS

23:23 14 Jun 22

Dealing with water damage, company came highly recommended. The were very professional, on time and knowledgeable about the issue. They assist with dealing with insurance company which set my mind at ease. The crew came and move necessary items to effectively remove damaged walls and carpet. I will definitely use again if needed (hope I don’t need…lol). Thanks DISINFECT for making an otherwise difficult moment less impactful. Your expertise was a welcomed experience.