How to Search a Burnt House After a Fire
Searching a house after a fire can be a complicated process. It can be devastating and dangerous depending upon the damages. Some fires destroy everything while others destroy enough to change a person’s life forever. There are several things you should know before searching your home after a fire. After a fire you have to wait for the approval from your fire marshall before searching your home.
- Make sure it is safe to go back into your home. Check with your authorities or fire officials before entering the home. Depending upon the type of fire, it may take days before you are allowed to return to your house. You may have to find somewhere else to stay until your house is determined whether or not it is livable.
- Search for important documents, insurance policies, photos, birth certificates, medications and jewelry. These should be some of the top items. These items need to be removed especially if you are having repairs done to your home. If you need help a fire official may assist you in scavenging through your home if they are still working the scene.
- Go through each room if possible and take pictures of the damage. Try to do this as soon as you are allowed into your home. You need these pictures for insurance purposes. A lot of items in your home may not have visible signs of being burned, but they may be damaged beyond repair by smoke. Throw out food that was exposed to the fire and any other items that can not be repaired.
- Search your house for wiring or structural damage. Have a professional come out to inspect the damages if you own the home. Get in contact with your landlord to see if they are going to send someone out if you are renting the property. It is always a good idea to have renters insurance.