Fire Damage Restoration in Irving and Las Colinas: Restoring Luxury Homes with Care

7/1/2024 (Permalink)

Irving and Las Colinas homeowners have called the restoration experts at SERVPRO of North Irving for nearly 40 years. We understand the profound impact that fire damage can have on your cherished homes. Whether it’s a minor kitchen flare-up or a devastating blaze, the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming. However, with the right expertise and approach, any home can be restored to its former glory. 

Understanding Fire Damage in Irving and Las Colinas

Irving and Las Colinas boast some of the most beautiful homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, often characterized by their elegance and meticulous design. Unfortunately, even the most meticulously designed homes are not immune to fire incidents. From electrical faults to accidents in the kitchen, fires can erupt unexpectedly, leaving behind not only visible damage but also lingering odors and hidden structural issues.

SERVPRO of North Irving’s Approach to Fire Damage Restoration

At SERVPRO of North Irving, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to fire damage restoration for homeowners. Here’s how we ensure your home receives the utmost care and attention it deserves:

1. Immediate Response: We understand that time is of the essence. Our team is available 24/7 to respond swiftly to your call. Upon arrival, we conduct a thorough assessment to understand the extent of the damage and develop a tailored restoration plan.

2. Safety First: Before restoration begins, we prioritize safety. We ensure that the property is secure and conduct assessments for any structural integrity issues or hazards that need immediate attention.  If needed, we also secure broken doors, windows, the roof, and even exterior walls. 

3. Damage Mitigation: Our skilled technicians employ advanced techniques to mitigate further damage. This includes board-up services, water extraction if firefighting efforts were involved, and addressing any smoke and soot residues.

4. Comprehensive Cleaning: Cleaning luxury homes requires meticulous attention to detail. We utilize specialized equipment and cleaning products to remove soot, smoke odor, and residue from surfaces, furniture, and textiles. Our goal is to restore not only the appearance but also the comfort and cleanliness of your home.  We use advanced ultrasonic and Esporta Wash System cleaning techniques. 

5. Restoration and Reconstruction: Beyond cleaning, we provide full restoration services to rebuild and restore your home to its pre-fire condition. Whether it’s repairing structural damage, replacing damaged materials, or coordinating with trusted contractors for reconstruction, we manage the entire process with professionalism and care.

Why Choose SERVPRO of North Irving?

- Experience and Expertise: With nearly 40 years of experience in handling fire damage restoration for luxury properties, we have honed our skills to deliver exceptional results tailored to your specific needs.

- High-Quality Standards: We adhere to the highest industry standards and use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure thorough and effective restoration.  Our staff is IICRC certified. 

- Insurance Coordination: Dealing with insurance claims can be complex. We work closely with your insurance provider to streamline the process and maximize your coverage, alleviating stress during a challenging time.

- Respect for Your Property: We understand the value you place on your home. Our team treats your property with utmost respect, working diligently to minimize disruption and restore your home with care and precision.

Call SERVPRO of North Irving for Fire Damage Restoration 

In Irving and Las Colinas, your luxury homes are not just houses—they are reflections of your hard work and personal style. At SERVPRO of North Irving, we recognize the significance of restoring these homes after a fire incident. With our commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we ensure that your home receives the best possible care throughout the restoration process. Trust us to restore your sanctuary, so you can focus on what matters most: your family, your lifestyle, and the future ahead.

Fire Damage Restoration in Irving, Texas: A Comprehensive Guide to Salvaging Your Property

4/21/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Irving has nearly 40 years of fire damage restoration experience. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

When fire damage occurs in Irving, there are typically three main phases to address:

1. Firefighting efforts
2. Restoration
3. Insurance.

In the first phase, firefighters work tirelessly to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. Once the fire is under control, the next step involves restoring the damaged property to its pre-fire state. This process can include cleaning up debris, repairing or replacing damaged structures, and identifying potential hazards. Finally, insurance is involved in providing coverage for restoration costs and assisting with any further needs or requirements in the aftermath of the fire.

When a fire occurs, it can leave behind devastating destruction and property damage. The consequences of such an event are far-reaching, affecting not only the affected property but also those who live or work in the area. Let's go over each fire damage restoration phase so that you know what steps need to be taken if your home or business has been affected by a fire.

Firefighting Efforts

Firefighting efforts are the first line of defense when it comes to containing and preventing the spread of a fire. Firefighters are a highly trained group of professionals who work tirelessly to put out the blaze and ensure that everyone in the affected area is safe.

Many factors can impact firefighters' efforts to contain a fire, such as the size and intensity of the blaze, the type of materials that are burning, and the weather conditions at the time. Additionally, the location of the fire can also be a significant challenge to firefighters. For example, if the fire is in a high-rise building, the firefighters will need to navigate through narrow stairwells and potentially use aerial ladders to reach the affected area.

Water is one of the essential tools firefighters use to fight fires. Firefighters use powerful water hoses to spray water onto the flames, which can help to extinguish the fire or to prevent it from spreading. However, there are some situations where using water can do more harm than good, such as when electrical equipment is involved. Special fire suppression agents may need to be used instead in these cases.

Some common fire suppression agents include carbon dioxide, dry chemicals, foam, and halon. Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that suffocates the fire by displacing the oxygen. Dry chemical agents, such as ammonium phosphate and potassium bicarbonate, work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire. Foam agents, such as protein and synthetic foam, create a blanket covering the fuel and preventing oxygen from reaching the fire. Lastly, halon is a gas that reacts with fire to stop the chemical reaction.

Each type of fire suppression agent has its own unique properties and is used in specific situations. Firefighters are trained to determine the appropriate agent to use based on the type of fire, the materials involved, and the location of the fire. Using the right suppression agent, firefighters can effectively extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading further.

Another critical part of firefighting efforts is ventilation. Firefighters must ensure a clear path for smoke and other dangerous gases to escape the affected area. This can involve breaking windows, creating ventilation holes in the roof, or using specialized fans to draw air out of the building.

The primary goal of firefighting efforts is to save a life. After this is accomplished, the secondary goal is to protect and preserve the building. While this is often successful, firefighting efforts result in the need for cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction of properties that have suffered fire damage. This is where a professional fire damage restoration company is needed.

Fire Damage Restoration Efforts

The fire damage restoration company you choose should be an expert in the following restoration efforts.

1. Emergency Services

Emergency services involve the initial assessment of the fire damage, securing the property, and providing emergency services such as board-up and tarping.

Fire damage emergency services are crucial in the aftermath of a fire disaster. After the firefighters have put out the blaze, the affected property needs to be assessed to determine the extent of the damage. Emergency services will be provided to secure the property, prevent further damage, and temporarily relieve those affected.

Board-up services are used to secure and protect the property from unauthorized entry, vandalism, theft, or further damage caused by inclement weather. Plywood sheets cover damaged windows, doors, and walls to prevent trespassers from accessing the property. This process is vital for protecting the property from further damage while restorations are being made.

Tarping services are also provided to prevent water intrusion after a fire. Tarping involves covering the damaged roof with a durable, waterproof material to protect the property from the elements. This process is critical during rainy seasons or when the property is located in areas prone to rain, storms, or hurricanes.

If the board-up can't be immediately done due to weather or other circumstances, a professional fire damage restoration company may erect a temporary security fence to prevent trespassers. While the wall is installed, security guards may be placed.

2. Fire Damage Assessment

When assessing fire damage, a professional fire damage restoration company will thoroughly inspect the property to determine the extent of the damage caused by the fire. This assessment includes identifying areas of the property affected by the fire, determining the severity of the damage, and developing a plan of action for restoration.

The first step is visually inspecting the property to identify areas most affected by the fire. This includes examining the property's structural components, such as the walls, floors, ceilings, and roof, to determine the extent of the damage. It also involves checking the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to ensure they function correctly and are not compromised by the fire.

The fire damage restoration company will then use specialized equipment, such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters, to assess the damage caused by the fire. Thermal imaging cameras detect areas of heat and moisture that may be hidden from the naked eye, allowing the restoration team to identify the extent of the damage. Moisture meters detect moisture levels in materials such as drywall and wood, indicating areas prone to mold growth if not addressed properly.

Once the assessment is complete, the fire damage restoration company will develop a plan of action for restoration. This plan will outline the steps that need to be taken to restore the property to its pre-fire condition. This may include boarding up damaged windows and doors, removing damaged materials, cleaning and sanitizing affected areas, and rebuilding damaged structural components.

3. Salvaging Contents

A fire damage restoration company understands the importance of salvaging the contents of a property after a fire disaster. Salvaging contents involves evaluating the affected personal belongings, furniture, and other valuable items in the property and determining what can be saved.

The restoration team will carefully sort through the property's contents, separating the damaged items from those that can be saved. In some cases, damaged items may be restored through cleaning and sanitizing, while others may need to be replaced entirely.

The restoration team will use specialized equipment such as ultrasonic cleaning machines and ozone generators to remove soot and smoke damage for salvageable items. Ultrasonic cleaning involves immersing items in a tank filled with cleaning solution and using high-frequency sound waves to loosen and remove debris. Ozone generators produce ozone gas, which destroys odor-causing particles and sanitizes the affected items.

In addition to cleaning and sanitizing, the restoration team may also use techniques such as freeze-drying and document restoration to salvage essential documents and electronics. Freeze-drying involves removing moisture from materials such as photographs and books to prevent further damage, while document restoration uses specialized equipment to restore and preserve important documents.

Salvaging contents is an integral part of fire damage restoration, as it helps restore a sense of normalcy to those affected by the fire. By salvaging personal belongings and valuable items, the restoration team can help expedite the process of returning the property to its pre-fire condition.

4. Demolition

After a thorough assessment, a fire damage restoration company may determine that specific structural components of the property need to be demolished due to the severity of the damage. The demolition process involves safely removing damaged materials and clearing the area to prepare for the rebuilding phase of restoration.

First, the restoration team will secure the area by removing salvageable items and boarding up openings. They will then isolate the demolition area by setting up containment barriers to prevent the spread of dust and debris. Protective gear, such as respirators and gloves, will also be worn to ensure the safety of the restoration team.

Once the demolition area is secured, the restoration team will remove damaged materials. This may involve using specialized equipment, such as saws, drills, and excavators, to remove the damaged components safely. Heavy machinery like cranes may also be used for large-scale demolition projects.

During demolition, the restoration team will take measures to control dust and debris by using negative air machines and HEPA filters. Negative air machines create a vacuum to capture any airborne particles and filter them through a HEPA filter, which removes 99% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size.

Once the damaged materials have been removed and the area has been cleared, the reconstruction phase of restoration can begin. The restoration team will work to rebuild the damaged structural components of the property, using specialized techniques and materials to ensure a safe and effective restoration.

Overall, the demolition phase of fire damage restoration is crucial in preparing the property for rebuilding. Through careful planning and execution, a fire damage restoration company can safely remove damaged components and pave the way for a successful restoration project.

5. Cleaning and Restoration

After all dangerous materials have been removed from the home or business, salvage efforts can begin with cleaning up any substances generated by fighting the fire (e.g., water, soot).

When cleaning items and contents affected by a fire, a reputable fire damage restoration company follows a precise process that involves moving these items to a safe location to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. This process is crucial to remove all contaminants and odors effectively.

To move contents, restoration companies will often pack and inventory all items in affected areas, labeling them for identification purposes. Once the contents have been packed and labeled, they are transported to a secure off-site location for cleaning and restoration.

During transportation, the restoration company will ensure that all items are carefully handled to avoid additional damage. They may use specialized equipment, such as dollies, carts, or boxes, to move and transport items without causing harm.

Once at the off-site location, contents are sorted and assessed based on their level of damage. Then, the restoration team will use advanced technology and equipment to clean items of all sizes and materials.

For example, the restoration company may use specialized cleaning equipment such as ultrasonic machines for soft contents such as clothing and fabrics. Ultrasonic cleaning machines remove soot and smoke damage from various materials. This involves immersing items in a tank filled with cleaning solution and using high-frequency sound waves to loosen debris.

For complex contents such as furniture or electronics, the restoration team may employ dry or wet cleaning methods depending on the material and level of damage. For example, dry cleaning may utilize a soft bristle vacuum and dry sponges to remove dust and dirt. Apply cleaning agents, rinse with water, then dry thoroughly for wet cleaning.

Ozone generators are another critical tool a restoration company may use when cleaning an affected structure. These machines produce ozone gas, which destroys odor-causing particles and sanitizes the affected items. This is particularly useful for items that have absorbed strong smoke odors.

It is important to note that not all items can be saved; the fire may too severely damage some and may need to be disposed of properly. Moreover, objects that cannot be saved will contribute to insurance claim settlements that the fire damage restoration company will file.

In addition to cleaning and sanitizing, the restoration team can also use techniques such as freeze-drying and document restoration to salvage essential documents and electronics. Freeze-drying involves removing moisture from materials such as photographs and books, which helps prevent further damage. On the other hand, document restoration uses specialized equipment to restore and preserve important documents.

During the cleaning process, paying attention to air quality is also essential. The restoration team will use negative air machines and HEPA filters to remove airborne particles and dust. They may also use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out water damage and prevent mold growth.

6. Reconstruction 

In some cases, reconstruction is necessary if there is significant damage to a structure due to a fire or if certain features need to be replaced for it to function properly again (e.g., heating systems). A restoration company will typically work with insurance adjusters and other professionals to determine the damage's extent and the reconstruction project's scope.

Reconstruction may involve removing damaged structural elements such as walls, ceilings, and floors. The team will also work to repair or replace damaged electrical and plumbing systems and HVAC systems.

An essential aspect of the reconstruction process is ensuring the property is up to code and meets all applicable safety standards. This may involve making structural changes or installing safety features such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems.

The restoration team will work closely with the property owner throughout the reconstruction process to ensure their needs and preferences are considered. They will also inform the property owner of progress and project timeline or budget changes.

Filing a Property Claim After Fire Damage

Filing an insurance property claim after fire damage is crucial to receiving compensation for the damages incurred. The first thing to do is to call your insurance company and report the incident. Make sure you have your policy number and other relevant information readily available.

An adjuster will be assigned to your case, who will contact you to schedule a visit to assess the damage. It is essential to document the damages before the adjuster's visit. Take pictures and videos of the affected areas and the damaged items. Make a list of everything damaged, even if it is not visible.

During the adjuster's visit, they will assess the damages and determine the coverage your policy entitles you to. They will also explain the claim process and the deductible that you will be required to pay.

After the assessment, the insurance company will send you a proof of loss form, which you must complete and return to them. This form lists all the damaged items and their estimated values. Make sure to be as detailed and accurate as possible.

Sometimes, the insurance company may send an independent adjuster to assess the damages. This is common in cases where the damage is severe or when there is a dispute over the coverage amount.

The insurance company may provide an advance payment to help you cover immediate expenses such as temporary housing or clothes replacement. It is important to keep receipts of all costs related to the fire damage.

Once the claim is approved, the insurance company will issue a settlement check or make the payment directly to the restoration company. Remember that the settlement amount may not cover the total replacement cost for all damaged items.

Filing an insurance property claim after fire damage can be lengthy and stressful. It is essential to keep records of all communication with the insurance company and to be patient throughout the process. Having a reliable and experienced restoration company to work with can also help ease the burden of dealing with the aftermath of a fire.

The Right Fire Damage Restoration Company will Help with Your Insurance Claim

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire on your property can be overwhelming and stressful. Hiring a professional fire damage restoration company can be a game-changer in easing the burden of dealing with the aftermath of a fire. In addition to their technical expertise, a reliable and experienced restoration company will help their clients process their insurance claims.

First, the restoration company will work closely with the property owner to assess the extent of the fire damage. They will document the damages and create an itemized list of everything damaged or lost. This list will include visible items and those that may have been damaged indirectly, such as the HVAC system, electrical wiring, or plumbing.

Once the damage has been assessed, the restoration company will ensure that the damages are accurately represented when filing the insurance claim. They will work with the insurance adjuster to ensure that the scope of the damage is fully understood and that the claim covers all necessary repairs and replacements.

Insurance claims can often be complicated, and clients may need to be better versed. In such cases, the right restoration company will advocate for their clients. They will work to ensure that the client's interests are protected and that they receive the maximum possible settlement for their claim.

The restoration company will also help their clients complete the necessary paperwork and gather the documentation to process the claim. They will ensure that all the required proof of loss forms are filled out and submitted promptly to avoid delays.

Sometimes, the insurance company may request additional documentation or a more detailed damages report. In such situations, the restoration company will work with its clients to provide the required information and ensure the claim is not denied.

Finally, the restoration company will work with the insurance company to ensure the settlement amount is fair and reasonable. They will advocate on their client's behalf to ensure that all necessary repairs and replacements are covered and that their client is not left with out-of-pocket expenses.

SERVPRO of North Irving's Fire Damage Restoration Team

The SERVPRO of North Irving fire damage restoration team is ready to help. We have nearly 40 years of experience in the damage restoration industry and have helped thousands of clients restore their properties.

The SERVPRO of North Irving fire damage restoration process has been honed over the decades. Our workflow includes the following:

1. Assess the extent of fire damage and create an itemized list of all damages

2. Ensure our client's insurance claim accurately represents the scope of the damage, and help fill out the necessary paperwork and gather the documentation needed to process claims

3. Act as an advocate for our clients to ensure they receive a fair settlement amount

4. Work with our clients to ensure their properties are restored to preloss condition

5. Provide best-in-industry fire damage cleaning, restoration, and construction services

The SERVPRO of North Irving fire damage team has extensive experience in dealing with fire damage restoration, having been in the industry for almost four decades. This means our clients can trust that the team has the technical expertise and knowledge to restore their property effectively.

In addition to our experience, our SERVPRO team is also highly trained and certified in fire damage restoration. We use state-of-the-art equipment, including ultrasonic, ozone, and the Esporta Wash System, and techniques to thoroughly clean and restore the property to preloss condition. This includes removing smoke and soot damage, eliminating odors, and repairing structural damage.

Working with the SERVPRO of North Irving team also means clients receive comprehensive support. We accurately assess the extent of the damage and file the necessary insurance claims. We also advocate for our clients to ensure they receive a fair settlement amount. Our team works tirelessly to cover all the required repairs and replacements so clients are not left with out-of-pocket expenses.

Moreover, the SERVPRO team understands that dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming and stressful. That's why we provide compassionate and empathetic service, taking the time to listen to our client's concerns and address any questions they may have throughout the process.

Contact SERVPRO of North Irving today to schedule a fire damage consultation. 

We're Here to Help.

Can Brick Houses Catch Fire?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Not only can SERVPRO restoration professionals remove smoke and fire odors, but they also have expertise in water damage restoration.

The question: “can a brick house catch fire?” usually comes up when someone is considering buying or building a house. Bricks houses are generally resistant to fire, have excellent sound and weather insulation, and are extremely energy efficient. But what happens if there is a fire in your home? Can a house made of brick catch fire and burn to the ground?

It is possible that a brick-built house can catch fire. However, the bricks won’t burn. Usually, other construction materials, furniture, and other combustible items cause extensive damage to a brick house. However, that doesn’t mean a brick house doesn’t suffer damage in a fire.

This article answers several questions about what happens to a house made from bricks during a fire. 

Can Bricks Catch Fire?

Although brick can burn depending on the materials and the fire temperature, it does not catch fire. Bricks are made by firing clay and other non-flammable materials at high temperatures. At the end of the brick-making process, flammable ingredients can remain. But, a brick wall is fire-resistant because the bricks themselves aren’t flammable.

What Happens to a Brick House During a Fire? 

Bricks are incredibly resistant to fire and have low thermal conductivity. Most house fires have an average temperature of around 1,800°F. However, a brick wall has a heat resistance of over 2,190°F. In addition, mortar is typically fire-resistant; however, not as resistant as brick. 

One of the severe issues affecting a brick house during a prolonged fire is that the mortar can crack and weaken. A sudden increase in temperature — for example, during a flashover — can affect the property’s structural integrity. In addition, an extreme fire lasting more than four hours can cause bricks to crack.

However, compared to other types of house facades like wood, brick offers the best protection. For example, a brick wall has one to four hours of fire resistance. Therefore, in places affected by wildfires or if you’re concerned about a house fire, a brick-built home offers the best protection.

Brick Houses Can Catch Fire

To answer the question —can a brick house catch fire? The answer is yes. However, it’s not the bricks that catch fire. Fires in brick houses usually start when reckless actions, mistakes, or carelessness ignites flammable materials. 

Because brick houses contain wooden construction parts, furniture, synthetic fabric, and electronics, fire risks in a brick house are just the same as in a wooden house. A brick house can burn down in a severe fire if extreme heat causes cement or mortar to crack. 

Therefore, just because bricks can’t catch fire doesn’t mean that the risks of house fires are less. The difference is that there is a greater chance of a house remaining standing after a typical fire.

Has Your House Suffered Fire Damage? We Can Help. 

It’s vital to call the experts in fire damage restoration. Not only can SERVPRO restoration professionals remove smoke and fire odors, but they also have expertise in water damage restoration. In addition, our technicians can perform a structural inspection on brick homes after a fire. 

Call SERVPRO of North Irving today to learn about our Dallas fire damage restoration services so your life can return to normal as quickly as possible. 

We’re available 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.

Can Baking Paper Catch Fire in the Oven?

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

Our Dallas Fire Damage Restoration services will remove the smoky odor, clean up, and reconstruct your kitchen after a fire.

Using ovens can be risky if you are new to them or have an older unit that hasn't been used in a while. 

Sometimes, food scraps get left inside while the oven is on, the food might overheat, or a pan of grease or fat overflows. These are all common causes of oven fires. Therefore, it's vital to be aware of the most important cooking fire and burn safety guidelines. 

Something as innocuous as baking paper could also be a risk factor for an oven fire. Let's find out how it can happen and what you can do to prevent it. 

Can Baking Paper Catch Fire in the Oven?

Like any other material, parchment paper can catch fire if used incorrectly.

There are inevitable mistakes that could cause the parchment paper to ignite. For example, instead of setting the oven on bake, you set it to broil or accidentally hit the self-cleaning option. These mishaps can quickly cause an oven fire. 

Remember never to open the oven door if a fire does break out in there!

On the other hand, if you use wax paper instead of parchment or baking paper, you must keep in mind that it is not as heat-resistant as baking paper. So if you leave wax paper exposed to heat for too long, it will most certainly melt. Moreover, this paper can easily be set on fire because of high temperatures. 

However, oven-safe parchment paper usually doesn't catch fire, but it may darken a bit due to heat in the oven.

Our Top Fire Prevention Tips for the Kitchen

Ideal Temperatures for Using Parchment Paper 

You can bake anything on it between 420°F to 450°F. If you need to go beyond that, you will need to replace parchment paper with a safe foil for use at a higher temperature. 

Use Oven-Safe Parchment Paper

While you're buying parchment paper, ensure that it is oven-safe. You can use this paper for baking and cooking without worrying about it catching fire. It contains silicone which makes it moist, oil-resistant, and heat resistant. 

Don't Grease the Parchment Paper

Don't put extra oil on the parchment paper as it can cause the start of a fire. Regardless of what you're baking on the parchment paper, whether cookies or cake, they will quickly come off the paper by simply picking them up with a spatula.  

What to Do if Parchment Paper Catches Fire in the Oven

If your parchment paper catches fire in the oven, follow these steps to extinguish it quickly and safely:

1. Do not open the oven door if you see it on fire
2. Just turn off the oven and wait for the fire to burn out on its own
3. If the fire doesn't extinguish and keeps growing, exit the house and dial 911
4. If it does extinguish, simply open your windows to let out the smoke
5. Cover your nose and cautiously open the oven door
6. Remove the hot pan

Call SERVPRO to Restore Your Home After a Fire

SERVPRO provides fast and reliable disaster recovery services. Our Dallas Fire Damage Restoration services will remove the smoky odor, clean up, and reconstruct your kitchen after a fire. 

Call us at SERVPRO of North Irving at (972) 986-7677, and our technicians will be on their way asap!

The Top 5 Extension Cord Safety Tips

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

After the fire is put out, call SERVPRO for our Dallas fire damage restoration services. With our 35+ years of experience, you will be in good hands.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical malfunctions caused only 6.8 percent of fires in 2019. However, property owners still need to be mindful of how their wiring can cause potential dangers. 

Even when it comes to something as simple as extension cords, one needs to know the essential extension cord safety tips. Engaging in the proper safety protocols will decrease the risk of fire and damage to your property. 

Most Important Extension Cord Safety Tips to Know

Following extension cord safety tips ensures that property owners won’t cause any fires and have to rely on Dallas fire damage restoration services afterward. Moreover, it also ensures that occupants are kept out of harm’s way.

The 5 most important extension cord safety tips you need to know are:

1. Choose the Right Extension Cord

When you need an extension cord, always choose one that’s appropriate for the intended use. If, for example, you need to power something outdoors, use an outdoor cord. Outdoor cords are designed to withstand the outside elements such as moisture, sunlight, and abrasion.

Using an indoor cord intended for outdoor use could start a fire and you will need to hire local Dallas fire damage restoration services.

2. Don’t Overuse a Cord

Don’t overlord and don’t overuse an extension cord, or you could cause the cord to deteriorate quickly. Deteriorated cords are a potential shock and fire hazard.

3. Check the Extension Cord’s Wattage Rating

When you purchase an extension cord, check its wattage rating, which you’ll find either in watts, amps, or volts. Your cord’s wattage rating should be greater than the appliance it is powering.

If you intend on plugging multiple appliances into a single cord, combine their wattages together to ensure the total does not exceed your cord’s rating.

4. Place Your Cords Appropriately

Don’t run your extension cords through your ceilings and your walls. If your cords are inside your ceilings and walls, they can overheat and create a fire hazard.

5. Don’t Use a Damaged Cord

As obvious as this sounds, many people still use a damaged cord. Even when not damaged at first, users will place cords in areas where they can be easily damaged (underneath furniture, through a window, etc.)

Placing a cord in such an area will likely strip the protective tubing around the wiring, which in turn will create shock and fire hazards.

Fire Caused by an Extension Cord? SERVPRO Can Help

After the fire is put out, call SERVPRO for our Dallas fire damage restoration services. With our 35+ years of experience, you can trust you will be in good hands.

Call us at (972) 986-7677 or visit our contact page.

Common Types of Smoke Damage That Can Happen in Your Home

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of a fire, smoke can damage structures and even mar the appearance of walls, ceilings, textiles, and even floors.

In 2019, nearly 1.3 million fires happened in the US. One can only imagine the damage that has occurred to the various commercial and residential properties involved in this statistic. And we’re not just talking about the fire itself.

Smoke can be just as damaging as a fire. In the aftermath of a fire, smoke can damage structures and even mar the appearance of walls, ceilings, textiles, and even floors. 

For this reason alone, it’s crucial that you learn about the different types of smoke damage that occur after the fire is out. And when you learn about them, make sure to call SERVPRO for our Dallas fire damage restoration services.

The Most Common Types of Smoke Damage

There are four common types of smoke damage. They include:

Protein Residue

This sort of smoke damage takes place when organic material evaporates during a fire — it typically happens after a cooking accident.

Unfortunately, protein residue is practically invisible as it has no noticeable signs. In due time, however, it can permanently discolor certain surfaces.

On the flip side, protein residue is not hard to smell. This type of smoke damage has an unpleasant stench that can cover an entire home or business.

Dry Smoke

Dry smoke spawns from burning paper or wood that causes high-temp fires. Compared to dense smoke and soot, dry smoke damage is much easier to clean since it leaves behind a powdery texture. So, it won’t smear when it’s wiped away. 

The issue with a dry smoke, however, is that it can seep its way into cracks and porous materials. Even though surfaces are clean, a smoky odor will linger. Fortunately, companies like SERVPRO can eliminate the odor with their Dallas fire damage restoration services.

Fuel and Oil Residue

Also known as petroleum residue, this type of damage isn’t all too common in the aftermath of fires unless petroleum products were stored in your home or business.

The problem with fuel or oil residue smoke damage is that it can occur even when a fire hasn’t taken place. If your building’s furnace has a “puffback” where it doesn’t ignite accordingly, it will release smoke and soot into the surrounding area. This will happen in the form of a small explosion or even a minor leak.

This sort of smoke damage is difficult to clean due to its density. It also has a powerful smell and can ruin furniture when not cleaned properly.

Wet Smoke

A low-heat fire can cause wet smoke damage when both plastic and rubber products are burned. The damage from these fires is typically minimal, but the smoke produced is much denser.

Because of its high density, wet smoke damage can completely cover every surface of your home or business’s surfaces. It can easily smear during the cleaning process, which is why you should always hire Dallas fire damage restoration services to get the job done.

SERVPRO Can Clean Your Smoke Damage

SERVPRO has been providing its Dallas fire damage restoration services for 35+ years. When you’re ready to receive professional help, call us at (972) 986-7677. Or visit our contact page.

What If a Fire Damaged Your Home?

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be catastrophic to homes and personal belongings. Once all life is accounted for, reach out to SERVPRO for fire restoration services.

The US Fire Administration has reported that in 2019, house fires damaged approximately 354,400 homes. Based on this fact alone, it’s easy to see that residential buildings are tragically susceptible to such disasters. 

If your home was recently damaged in a fire, feelings of panic and worry are understandable. But don’t worry. We’ve listed important information and advice below that you can follow in the aftermath of a house fire.

After the fire is out, call SERVPRO for their Dallas fire damage restoration services at (214) 272-7600.

Speak with Your Homeowners Insurance Agent

When your home is damaged, you should first contact your homeowners’ insurance agent immediately to discuss losses. Ask them if the damage is covered under your policy and what the deadline is to file a claim.

Afterward, make sure further damage isn’t done to your home by taking the necessary precautions. After a fire, block out certain areas where flooring or walls are weak. This will help prevent further damage and will also ensure household members won’t be harmed.

Document All Damages and Keep Records

Before the insurance adjuster visits, make a checklist for the areas of your home that you think need to be inspected. Also, keep records of all your conversations with the adjuster, and what areas they assessed.

You want to make sure you have all the proper documentation in order before you hire Dallas fire damage restoration services.

Has Fire Damaged Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Dallas Love Today

After you’ve spoken with your insurance company, deal with the damage next with SERVPRO. With our expertise and handiwork, we feel confident that we can provide you with the Dallas fire damage restoration you need.

For any inquiries, you can call us at (214) 272-7600 or fill out our online form.

Tips to Reduce Your Household Fire Risk

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

If you or a family member have been affected by a house fire, call the fire restoration specialists at SERVPRO for an immediate response.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 25% of fire-related deaths result from fires in homes. Every year, thousands of people die, and many more are injured because they did not know how to escape a house fire.

The number one cause of death in home fires is due to smoke inhalation; this can be prevented by having an exit plan and practicing good safety measures.

 If you need immediate assistance from fire damage,  SERVPRO North Irving’s fire damage restoration experts are here to help and available 24/7. Call our North Irving location at (972) 986-7677 for an immediate response.

Here are four tips to help reduce the risk of house fires.

#1: Regularly Test Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms play a key role in reducing the risk of death or injury from fires. Studies have shown that more than 50% of all homes had no smoke alarms, and nearly 30% of those with smoke alarms had either none or were non-functioning.

Most home fire deaths occur between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when people are most likely to be asleep. Smoke alarms provide the earliest warning of fire, giving you additional time for escape.

Your home should have smoke alarms on every level, both inside and outside bedrooms, in hallways near all sleeping areas, and where one travels through the home exiting. Put in fresh batteries once a year and test them monthly. If your alarm is more than ten years old, you should replace it with a smoke alarm with a sealed-in battery feature.

Read more on Fire Damage Emergency Tips

#2. Check Heating Sources for Problems

Fried foods, malfunctioning appliances, and other high-heat sources are a fire hazard to your home. Check the heating systems for any wear or damage. You may need to have someone inspect your furnace.

Make sure all electrical cords are in good condition and kept away from hot surfaces. Don’t overload sockets with oversized plugs or block them with furniture.

Do not leave anything on stovetop burners when you go to sleep. If your oven goes out, do not use it as a substitute for the oven by using pots and pans on its surface. Always keep flammable items away from heat sources, such as fireplaces and space heaters.

#3. Store Flammable Items Away

There are everyday household items with high flammability levels, such as upholstered furniture, curtains, bedding, and clothing. Always keep these away from heat sources.

Keep your fireplace grate cleaned so it can do its job to reduce fires in your home. Store firewood at least twenty feet away from your home. If you must use flammable liquids for cleaning or other tasks, be sure to use them only in well-ventilated areas and properly dispose of them when done.

#4. Create an Escape Plan and Practice It

Developing an escape plan for every household member will help ensure everyone can get out safely in case of a home fire. When creating an exit plan, consider the following:

• Where am I? What do I need from my bedroom or other parts of the house?
• Which way will I exit my home? Will this be by a stairway on the side of the house, a fire escape on the back, or through my front door?
• How can I get out safely? What am I going to do if there is smoke in the hallways or stairwells?
• Where am I going once outside? How will I get there and how long will it take me to get there?
• Is it safe for me to stay? If you live in a high-rise building, would it be safer to "wait out" the fire from your balcony or fire escape?

Practice your escape plan at least twice a year and ensure everyone is accounted for after each practice.

Respond Quickly to Any Fire Disaster with On-site Mitigation Services

Timely and straightforward preventative measures can go a long way in protecting your loved ones and reducing the risk of house fires.

If you or a family member have been affected by a house fire, call the fire restoration specialists at SERVPRO of North Irving for an immediate response. We will help return your home to pre-fire condition as quickly as possible and with minimal disruption to your day-to-day activities. Call (972) 986-7677.

Common Causes of Fort Worth House Fires

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

We hope a house fire never happens to you, but if it does, SERVPRO of Fort Worth is prepared to do a complete fire damage restoration.

The City of Fort Worth reports that in 2019 the fire department responded to 2192 fires. Of those fires 618 were residential. From 2014-2016, Tarrant County held the third position for most structure fires in Texas.

Is your home at risk for fires? SERVPRO of Fort Worth responds to many fire damage scenarios throughout the year, but the truth is we’d rather house fires be prevented. Here’s a guide on how to avoid common causes of house fires.

5 Common Ways a Home Fire Starts

As you read through these house fire scenarios, ask yourself if this is an issue in your home.

Outdated Electrical System

With modern improvements, home electrical systems are now safer. Some older homes have yet to be upgraded so certain parts of the wiring become unsafe. When wires overheat because of an overloaded circuit, the sparks created cause materials to catch on fire.

Kitchen Mishaps

The kitchen is rife with fire potential. Particle build-up from unclean ovens catches fire while baking. Oils and grease become a flame when making contact with the burner. Loose clothing drapes over the stove and catches on fire. Children playing around in the kitchen also pose a fire risk.

Unattended Candles

Those who use candles in the home for fragrance, decorating, and relaxing sometimes forget they are still lit. Some may even go to sleep with one still burning. A candle being knocked over, the glass container exploding, or it being played with by a child or a pet may cause items nearby to catch on fire.

Embers from Smoking

The number of people who still smoke decreases every year, but those who still smoke habitually or occasionally can unintentionally start a fire. Falling asleep while smoking is a common cause for fires when a cigar or cigarette falls from a hand or mouth. Someone might also fail to put out a cigarette completely.

Heating Hazards

Space heaters offer supplementary warmth for drafty homes during the winter, and many come with safety features like automatic shut-off if it tips over. However, space heaters should never be placed close to combustibles like papers, wood, or blankets.

Some resort to using the kitchen oven to heat the home by leaving the door open, but this is highly dangerous as it creates a fire risk.

How to Prevent Fires in Your Home

Sometimes fires are not preventable, but here are some things you can do to correct fire hazards in your home.

• Twice a year, check your smoke alarms and replace the alarm batteries. Some do this during the bi-annual daylight savings time changes.
• Have the heating system, furnace, and electrical systems checked by a professional.
• Don’t leave cooking unattended in the kitchen, wipe up oil and grease spills promptly, keep loose fabrics out of the way, and don’t use the oven to heat the home.
• Keep dryer vents and lint traps clean and clear of blockage. 
• Check power cords for wire exposure.
• Keep any flammable chemicals away from heat. 
• Be vigilant with the use of candles, fireplaces, and cigarettes. 
• Have fire extinguishers on hand (especially in the kitchen). 

Call SERVPRO of Fort Worth for Fire Damage Restoration

We hope a house fire never happens to you, but if it does, SERVPRO of Fort Worth is prepared to do a complete fire damage restoration. We are available for emergency contact 24/7 and we work with your insurance company for a smooth claims process. Just call (817) 589-1499.

Fort Worth Odor Removal and Deodorization Services

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Some odors are very difficult to expel. As a top-rated Fort Worth restoration company, deodorization is a finishing touch in the SERVPRO process.

It seems that manufacturers come out with a new odor-fighting product every month. Any retail store you go to has several products on the shelf meant to either mask or eliminate odors. 

Some odors are very difficult to expel. As a top-rated Fort Worth restoration company, deodorization is a finishing touch in the SERVPRO process. Our mission is to make it “Like it never even happened,” which means no smells are left behind as a reminder of the event.

When Professional Odor Removal is Needed

SERVPRO gets close to the smells so you don’t have to. There are a number of scenarios where we work to eliminate odor in our cleanup process.

Fire Restoration

Smoke and soot smells are always present for a fire event. These odors deeply penetrate all fibrous materials like wood, drywall, and fabrics. This can even creep into air ducts.

Commercial properties that were once a gathering place for smokers may need to be converted to another business where cigarette smells would be unwelcome.

Water Damage

Water and moisture from flooding will slip through the tiniest nook or cranny. SERVPRO’s main goal is to remove every droplet so that mold and mildew won’t have a chance to take root and grow.

When water damage has been left unaddressed for a long time, the musty and mildewy smell gets to be very strong and pungent. 

Sewage Cleanup

Wastewater is contained and kept apart from the environment of living creatures, and when this ends up where it doesn’t belong, it needs to be cleaned up immediately. Contamination can have a very pungent and offensive smell and when it penetrates down deep into fibers, and it can be hard to remove.

Crime Scene & Hoarding Clean Up

It’s something that most of us would rather not think about, but when a cadaver has been left undiscovered in a room for days, the smell is very strong. Similarly, when a house has been overcome with the effects of hoarding, rotting food and animal waste create many odors.

Call SERVPRO of Fort Worth for Complete Restoration Services

No one wants a smell left behind after major cleanup efforts. That’s why SERVPRO makes sure there is not a hint that anything ever happened on your property. 

Our team of restoration professionals has deodorization expertise. They are specially trained to eliminate problem smells. We don’t mask the odor, we eliminate it by addressing its source.

SERVPRO’s odor-fighting process starts with the removal and cleaning of all contaminated items and construction. The cleaner the environment is, the more odor is banished. We also use HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to further clear the air of smells. Industrial citrus-powered cleaners are used as a finishing touch to resolve odors on surfaces.

We do it all with the right personal protective gear as we get close to the odors so you won’t have to. Call SERVPRO at (817 )589-1499 to clean any mess and clear out any sign it ever happened - including the smells.

Common Causes of House Fires in Dallas, TX

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

We hope you never have to deal with a house fire, but if you do, SERVPRO of North Irving is here to make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Dallas, TX has the second-largest fire services network in the state. Dallas County Health and Human Services states that “lightning, wildfire, arson, faulty wiring, a remodeling project, or a simple act of human carelessness” are the common causes of house fires.

SERVPRO of North Irving is committed to public safety in the greater Dallas community. While we’re here 24/7 to assist with residential fire restoration, we’d rather house fires didn’t start in the first place.

5 Common Causes of Residential Fires

When a house fire occurs, the big question is how it started. Causes of fires are reported for insurance documentation and fire statistics. Below are some of the most common reasons fires start in the home.

• Electrical

When wires overheat from an overloaded current, this causes sparks and building materials catch on fire. This could start inside a wall and spread quickly. Older homes are susceptible to electrical fires when their wiring has not been brought up to current standards.

• Cooking

Leaving things to cook unattended, combustibles making contact with heating elements, and pressure cookers are common causes of kitchen fires. For example, if someone leaves a pot and it boils over, the grease or oil makes contact with the stove and starts a fire.

• Candles

Candles are handy in the home for fragrance, decorating, and relaxing. When someone lights a candle and forgets about it, the candle might knock over or the glass could break and the flame spread to nearby paper or cloth.

• Smoking

Smoking in or around the house is known to cause fires. When a cigarette isn’t properly put out or if someone falls asleep while smoking, this can start a fire.

• Heating

During the winter we will do anything to warm up. Space heaters offer additional warmth for drafty homes. While some have safety features, they must be kept away from any combustible materials like paper and fabrics. Some resort to using their oven to heat the home with the oven door open, but this is dangerous and creates a fire risk.

How to Prevent House Fires

With house fires, some factors are out of our control. Here are some things you can do to decrease your chances of a fire. 

• Test your smoke alarms and change the batteries twice per year. 
• Inspect your heating apparatuses for electrical problems. Have your furnace checked by a professional. 
• Be careful in the kitchen. Don’t leave cooking unattended, wipe up oil and grease spills, keep loose fabrics out of the way, and don’t use the oven to heat the home.
• Keep dryer vents and lint traps clean and clear of blockage. 
• Check power cords for wire exposure or have an electrician inspect your home if it’s old.
• Store flammable materials safely and away from heat. 
• Be vigilant with the use of candles, fireplaces, and cigarettes. 
• Have fire extinguishers on hand (especially in the kitchen). 

Call SERVPRO of Dallas for Fire Damage Restoration

We hope you never have to deal with a house fire, but if you do, SERVPRO of North Irving is here to make fire damage “Like it never even happened.” We are available for emergency contact 24/7 and we work with your insurance company to ensure that the claims process runs smoothly. Call (972) 986-7677

Dallas Fireplace Cleaning and Restoration Services

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers professional fireplace cleaning services and fire damage restoration services to homeowners in the Dallas area.

A fireplace is a selling point for any property, so it’s worth putting in the time and effort to maintain it. If you have this warm and cozy feature in your home, we recommend routine maintenance and care for it over the years.

Why Clean Your Fireplace?

It is recommended that a fireplace have a good cleaning every year. As part of the cleaning process, the chimney and vents should also be inspected to ensure that passages are not blocked and are in good condition.

Creosote is identified by its soft and flaky soot appearance. Eventually, it becomes a tar-like shiny substance that sticks to surfaces. When creosote buildup isn’t removed, this creates a chimney fire hazard.

Signs Your Fireplace Needs a Cleaning

• It lets off a constant campfire smell (even when you haven’t had a fire recently).
• It becomes more difficult to keep a fire going steadily.
• Too much smoke in the room, even with the flue open.
• A black substance (likely creosote) appears on the fireplace damper
• Oily marks are seen on the fireplace walls.
• You hear animals moving around in the chimney.

What is Involved with Fireplace Cleaning?

Cleaning a fireplace is about removing as much ash, debris, soot, and grime as possible from both the inside and the outside. While the process of cleaning a wood-burning fireplace and a gas fireplace is similar, a gas fireplace involves some disassembly.

1. Make sure the fireplace has completely cooled (may take up to 24 hours). For a gas fireplace, make sure the gas is completely turned off along with the pilot light.
2. Put on protective clothing and safety glasses.
3. Open the flue.
4. For gas fireplaces, components will need to be removed or disassembled to be cleaned separately (glass doors, metal screen or curtain, logs burner unit, etc.)
5. Use a brush to loosen ash from nooks and crannies
6. Sweep up and vacuum all loose ash and soot.
7. Use a brush to loosen
8. To remove all buildup with a homemade cleaning mixture or cleaning product for fireplaces.
9. Rinse off and dry.
10. Polish glass and metal surfaces as needed.
11. Reassemble gas fireplace components.

Don’t forget to check outside vents for debris like leaves and animal nests.

What is Fireplace Restoration?

If you’ve done all you can to clean your fireplace and you’re still having the symptoms mentioned earlier, you could probably use the help of a professional restoration service, especially if the fireplace started a housefire (or almost has).

Old fireplaces can develop chimney combustion issues over time. A fireplace should keep you safe as it keeps you warm, so ongoing problems warrant a professional inspection.

A fireplace restoration ensures the lifespan of your fireplace. In addition to eliminating the fire risk from creosote buildup, you’ll have the opportunity to address any flaws in the construction such as the masonry around the hearth, cracks or chips to the material, etc. 

Call SERVPRO for a Fireplace Cleaning & Fire Mitigation

SERVPRO is the one to call for Dallas fire damage restoration, but we’d rather help homeowners prevent a house fire before it starts. Now that you are aware of the risk of creosote buildup in chimneys, you can be proactive about keeping your fireplace clean.

When it’s time for a professional fireplace cleaning or restoration, call SERVPRO at (972) 986-7677 for a free estimate for your fireplace maintenance plan.

Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas, TX

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you're facing the aftermath of a fire, call the professionals at SERVPRO for professional fire damage restoration services.

Professional Fire Damage Restoration Service in Dallas, TX

The aftermath of a structure fire is overwhelming. The losses are difficult to accept as you are surrounded by the destruction of personal items and the shelter itself.

However, accepting what is lost and adjusting to the circumstances is the only way forward. With an experienced Dallas fire damage restoration company working for you, you’ll be on your way back to normalcy.

For decades, SERVPRO of North Irving has helped countless property owners recover their fire-damaged properties in Dallas, TX. We understand the hardships and adjustments that come along after a fire. We do our best to minimize the recovery time.

Who you choose to manage your property restoration is a major decision. We’re here on standby to take your call 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. SERVPRO is “Faster to any size disaster” and we do all we can to make the process efficient. Call us at (972) 986-7677 with any fire damage recovery questions and for a free quote.

SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Process

After experiencing a major loss, you may be leery of placing your property recovery in the hands of a Dallas fire damage restoration company. We’re with you every step of the way through the fire restoration process and are transparent about all that is involved. To keep you updated and answer any questions you may have, we assign you a single point of contact.

A frequent question we hear is “What does a fire restoration company do?” We’ve put together this guide to familiarize you with how it works.

Phase 1: Fire Damage Inspection and Assessment

So what all is involved with Dallas Fire damage restoration? Fire and smoke damage restoration is about bringing the property back to its preloss condition. To plan out the process, we must have a list of everything that is damaged. 

We address what is beyond the surface of the obvious signs of damage to ensure that everything is recovered. This means we check the rooms and spaces adjacent to the affected area. Once we have all damage identified and itemized, we can begin the fire remediation work.

Phase 2: Board-Up and Roof-Tarp

SERVPRO is prepared to get started on the work immediately, but we may not be able to start until we have authorization (for example, from the insurance adjuster). 

Fire damage often leaves the property vulnerable to secondary damage from rain, vandalism, or theft. Imagine shattered windows, gutted walls, or holes in the roof left unguarded for several weeks.

We board up and tarp these areas to create temporary protection. Insurance companies may want to know what was done to prevent additional damage, and board up and tarping is a proactive safeguard.

Phase 3: Water and Smoke Removal

When people think of fire damage, they usually imagine singed corners and piles of ash. So why would there be water damage too? 

Fire sprinklers dispense 8-24 gallons of water per minute and a firehose dumps 50-125 gallons per minute, and this leaves behind water damage.

We eliminate damaging water and moisture with high-powered extraction machines, dehumidifiers, and air circulation acceleration. Lingering moisture will lead to mold growth, so the job is not done until everything is completely dry.

Fire damage leaves behind damaging soot, messy ash, and a strong odor. We use advanced techniques, specialized equipment, industrial cleaners, and air scrubbers to eliminate all remnants of smoke damage.

Phase 4: Fire Damage Restoration

Our goal is to restore rather than replace. We’ll clean, disinfect, and sanitize all that can be recovered, including personal items.

One way we recover personal property is with our Esporta Wash System. We place contaminated soft goods into the machine for thorough fire cleanup. Once these items have been processed, they will have achieved food grade cleanliness.

What cannot be restored will be rebuilt and replaced. We’ll replace drywall, wooden construction, paint, and put in new carpet. Our Dallas reconstruction services will do whatever it takes to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damaged Contents Restoration Service

Looking over all that has been severely damaged by fire, you may wonder how any of it could be recovered. Is it all bound for the dumpster? Not necessarily. Our Dallas Fire damage restoration services use a variety of techniques to restore your possessions.

Documents Restoration

While we may not be able to bring photos and documents back to their original condition, we can salvage the items for safekeeping.

Types of materials we restore:

• Paper documents
• Books and magazines
• Manuscripts and files
• Photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• X-rays
• Blueprints and maps
• Parchment

One of our most effective techniques is also used by Library of Congress historians. We use a vacuum freeze-drying process which is the only document preservation method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA). We also sterilize the documents using gamma irradiation technology.

Digitizing allows you to have a copy of the original when its present quality is perishable. We’ll scan and store your items in a confidential manner to protect your privacy.

Below is a complete list of document recovery methods our technicians use:

• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying

Furniture Restoration

We understand that furniture purchases are a major investment. The cost of a new set of furniture is considerable, and antique furniture is irreplaceable. 

The first thing we do is separate the legs of furniture from contact with harmful elements (such as wet carpet).

We’ll apply the most appropriate remedy for each piece of furniture. We disassemble the furniture to give each component a thorough cleaning.

• Dry cleaning - Clean light residue from furniture surface or as a pre-treatment prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet cleaning - Removes moderate to heavy residues from the furniture.
• Spray and wipe - Used on furniture that would be damaged from too much exposure to water/soaking.
• Foam cleaning - Cleans upholstery fabrics would shrink or bleed from water-based cleaning.
• Abrasive cleaning - Agitation of the surface for stubborn soiling.
• Immersion cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of an industrial cleaning product.

Electronics Restoration

Some might guess that dusting the ashes off electronics is enough to clean them. The truth is that residue from smoke is acidic and corrosive to the electronic components over time.

We advise you not to attempt to turn on or use electronics that have been in a structure fire. Let the professionals clean these up for you so they can be saved. SERVPRO will carefully restore your televisions, DVD players, computers, etc. with our expert electronic fire damage cleaning techniques.

How Much Does it Cost to Restore Fire Damage in Dallas?

The average cost of Dallas fire damage restoration is $13,730 (while the national average is $13,566). 

Factors include:

• Square footage of the damage.
• Depth of the damage.
• How much soot and smoke damage.
• How much water damage.
• Reconstruction

For more information on fire restoration costs, read our smoke damage repair costs guide! Keep in mind that the figures mentioned above are industry averages for fire damage restoration companies and do not necessarily reflect SERVPRO’s pricing structure. To get an idea of what we would charge, please contact SERVPRO directly for pricing information.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fire Restoration?

Most homeowner insurance policies do provide coverage for structure fire damage. Some may cover expenses for temporary relocation. Be sure to save proof of your expenses such as receipts for lodging and new clothing.

If you’ve been living in a house for many years, you’ve likely forgotten what level of coverage you secured. To refresh your memory, it’s a good idea to set up a meeting with your insurance agent to go over your coverages prior to any fire event. Ask about deductibles and how much coverage levels for personal property and temporary relocation. You may need to increase your coverage or initiate a new policy with another company that offers more benefits.

We work with your insurance company to make the process as efficient as possible. Because of our great reputation, SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many major insurance carriers.

Does Fire Damage Affect HVAC systems in Dallas?

During a structure fire, smoke and soot travel into the ducts of your HVAC system, even when the system is not running. Aside from being a health hazard, the soot and smoke damage warps the ductwork.

Dallas fire damage restoration addresses the HVAC system with a full inspection, cleaning, and sealing. This resolves many climate control and air quality issues caused by the fire damage. Our goal is to keep your environment comfortable and healthy by ensuring that your HVAC system’s life is not shortened by this unfortunate event.

Certified Dallas SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration Service Ready 24/7

Fire damage is one of the most unfortunate things to happen to a home or business. You’re surrounded by loss and destruction. We understand the stress that comes with fire events. Our team of Dallas professional fire restorers is here to pick up the pieces and get you back to your normal life as soon as possible.

When you hire SERVPRO for fire damage restoration services, you will have a single point of contact and we will communicate with your insurance company on your behalf. This makes the process efficient and reduces stress for the property owner. Call us today to get started on your fire damage restoration process. We’re available 24/7 year-round for emergency contact at (972) 986-7677.

How Much Does it Cost to Clean Smoke Damage in Dallas

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been damaged in a house fire, contact the Dallas experts at SERVPRO for professional fire and smoke damage restoration.

Both small and large house fires have this in common - they leave behind smoke damage. The smell of smoke lingers to remind you of the fire event, but smoke leaves behind more than just odor.

Smoke discolors walls and fixtures. Soot can have a corrosive effect on appliances and electronics. Also of concern is how soot affects your health when inhaled, which can cause an array of health effects.

How much does it cost to clean smoke damage? While you can easily look up the price to replace an appliance, electronics, and reconstruction material, smoke damage restoration cost isn’t as clear cut.

Smoke damage cleanup is a complex part of fire damage restoration in Dallas, TX. Use this guide to understand what is involved in smoke damage clean up cost.

Filing an Insurance Claim After a Fire or Smoke Damage Incident

Fire damage restoration costs quickly add up, so many property owners will be looking for ways to defray the expense. Hopefully, you already have insurance coverage on your home or business.

Once everyone is safe and sound, the next thing to do is begin the claims process. 

1. Contact your insurance company to initiate a claim filing. Insurance claims can be a long process, so the sooner you start the smoke claim process, the better. 
2. Suss out what your policy covers by confirming the details with the insurance representative.
3. Call a trusted fire damage restoration company. SERVPRO Dallas has worked with numerous insurance adjusters, so we know the process inside and out. To make the process more efficient, we work with the insurance company on your behalf.
4. Take photos and video to document the damage. This should only be done after the fire department has said it’s safe to renter the structure.
5. Take notes about the damage and itemize the losses (furniture, electronics, clothing, etc.)
6. Do your best to provide an accurate valuation of the items that were destroyed. You may need to go through your credit card statements/online order history to provide accurate value figures.
7. Request a copy of the incident report from the fire department.
8. If you have been temporarily displaced, keep the receipts for all of your expenses. Your insurance company may reimburse you for the cost of temporary relocation.
9. Let your insurance company and fire damage restoration company handle the rest. SERVPRO will even safely store your belongings while the recovery process is underway.

Most of these steps are appropriate for major fire damage. You might still benefit from calling your insurance company for small fires. 

Water Damage Restoration Costs

How is water damage relevant to the question, “How much does it cost to clean smoke damage?” When you think about fire damage, you may think of a bone dry environment with scorched material everywhere you look. 

When there has been a major fire event, there is likely to be water damage as well. This usually comes from a fire sprinkler system or a firehose. The water that snuffs out the flames drenches everything.

A fire hose can release around 150 gallons per minute. That can easily damage your property the same way a major rainstorm would.

How much does water damage repair cost alongside fire damage repair costs? In the Dallas area, the average cost for water damage remediation is $3,014. It’s $450 on the low end vs. $11,000 on the high end. This is about what it would cost compared to the national average ($2,976).

The above estimates are from external data sources and don’t necessarily reflect SERVPRO’s rates. Contact us anytime for our pricing information.

How Much Does Smoke Remediation Cost?

Professional smoke removal includes scrubbing the walls and floors with industrial smoke treatment cleaners. What cannot be restored will need to be replaced with new materials. Air scrubbing may also be necessary. SERVPRO can even recover certain electronics.

How much does it cost to clean smoke damage in Dallas? The current average for fire damage repair costs in the Dallas area is $13,730. That is $800 on the low end and as much as $106,500 on the high end. This is about the same as the national average ($13,566).

These estimates may not include other costs such as water damage repair, home reconstruction, storage for belongings, and temporary housing expenses.

Keep in mind that these fire damage restoration estimates are from a third party and do not necessarily align with SERVPRO’s rates. To get an idea of what we would charge for smoke remediation, contact us any time.

Deodorizing and Ozone Smoke Removal Costs

Smoke odor is a nagging reminder of the fire event, but smoke in the air can also trigger allergies. Removing and cleaning fire damaged items and materials will eliminate much of the odor, but perhaps not all of it.

How much does it cost to clean smoke damage (when you’re removing the remaining odor)?

On average, the cost to remove smoke smell from a house (professionally) is between $200-$100. For ozone smoke removal, the costs range from $200-$400.

SERVPRO’s rates may not necessarily match these figures. Contact us to learn more about our rates for Dallas odor removal.

Contact SERVPRO for Fire and Smoke Damage Repair in Dallas, TX

Smoke damage is an eyesore and has a strong odor. Soot is so damaging that just getting rid of the burnt pieces is not enough. We must also tend to what smoke has damaged and remove the remnants it leaves behind (especially the smell).

After a fire event, you should contact your insurance company right away and then call a reputable fire damage restoration company to get started on the recovery process right away.

When you call on SERVPRO for Dallas fire damage restoration, you not only hire a company with decades of local experience, but you also get:

• Emergency services: roof tarp, board-up, and live security (to prevent secondary losses).
• Fire cleanup services
• Fire smoke odor deodorization
• Move-out, move-in storage
• Sanitation of all belongings
• Textile restoration
• Electronic restoration services
• Reconstruction
• 1 point contact - Keep track of the whole process by contacting just one person!
• Faster service. Because we offer all of the services needed for fire damage restoration, we can make the process more efficient so you get back to life as usual sooner. 
• Lower costs. The savings we gain by being more efficient is passed on to the customer.
• Higher customer satisfaction. We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

How much does it cost to clean smoke damage? The best way to get an accurate answer to this question is to call us at (972) 986-7677 for pricing info. We’re here to take your call around the clock, 365 days per year. Contact us any time!

Dallas Professional Fire Restorers

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

If you've experienced fire damage on your property, contact SERVPRO for professional fire damage restoration from our Dallas experts.

Fires often happen without warning, and it’s dizzying how rapidly it can decimate a structure. Thinking fast may be able to save a property from destruction, but what about the times we aren’t so lucky - like when you aren’t at home to stop it? 

After devastating losses over the centuries, humans have invented fire safety devices such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, smoke-activated sprinklers, etc. 

While we are perhaps in a better position to defend ourselves from fire than our ancestors, we are still vulnerable to destructive structure fires. Enter professional fire restorers. One step at a time, SERVPRO’s Dallas fire damage repair and restoration make up for what was lost.

The greater the fire damage, the more bewildering the experience can be for property owners. After the shock wears off, you’re faced with what to do next. The decision to hire professional fire restorers is no small matter, so in this article, we’ll tell you what you need to know about the fire recovery process.

Understanding Fire Restoration

Professional fire restorers are experienced in making a conclusive assessment of property damage from a thorough inspection. Fire remediation is the process of applying effective methods to remove soot, extract water from extinguishing flames, restore the air quality, and rebuild whatever cannot be salvaged.

When you look at a structure ravaged by fire, you may wonder if it’s beyond repair. With comprehensive restoration services, there is hope to bring a property back to preloss condition.

Homes and buildings are a huge investment. That’s why insurance is necessary in case the unthinkable happens. Professional fire restorers work with your insurance company to make the property like new so what you’ve invested in remains yours to enjoy.

How is Fire Restoration Accomplished?

Every situation is different, so as professional fire restorers we come up with a recovery plan that covers the specific needs of the property. Fire damage comes in all sizes, so we are prepared to do a complete fire damage restoration process for situations big and small.

The process begins when you call our emergency contact agent. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Our staff member will ask a series of questions to determine what is needed to address your issue. Within the hour, we will contact you to arrange service. As we are faster to any size disaster, the goal is always to get to the job site ASAP.

Within the next four hours, our team of professional fire restorers will arrive at the property to assess the damage. The first task at hand is always to mitigate secondary damage. For example, we will board up or tarp any openings created by fire damage that leaves the structure exposed to the elements.

Next, our trained technicians will walk you through the fire restoration process plans piece by piece so you’ll know what to expect and the intended outcome. Our professional fire restorers will also provide a brief to key decision-makers (an adjuster or property manager).

Pretesting allows professional fire restorers to determine what needs to be done from the inside out. From there, our team performs a thorough cleaning, a full restoration, and a complete deodorization.

Our team of professional fire restorers completes the work efficiently using state-of-the-art restoration techniques so the job is done right the first time. We understand that it’s not a restoration until the work is done with the care and quality that is made to last.

The last phase is the best part. We walk you through the completed work. Property owners are relieved to finally see things as they were before the fire. 

For the final walkthrough, we want to be sure you are completely satisfied with the outcome. We want to hear any of your observations or concerns, so we may swiftly address it.

Our Fire Restorer’s Specialized Equipment

Quality work can only be done with the right tools. To have the work completed in a timely way, technology and equipment must perform reliably. Our team of professional fire restorers is trained to use industry equipment to carry out efficient fire remediation.

With our specialized equipment, our team is fully prepared to tackle common fire damage remnants such as: 

• Wet smoke – Comes from plastics and synthetics. Characteristics: Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary.

• Dry smoke – Comes from paper and wood. Characteristics: fast burning, high temperatures, dry, and powdery non-smeary residues.

• Protein – Virtually invisible, but discolors paints and varnishes. Characteristics: extreme pungent odor.

• Fuel oil soot – Furnace puff backs.
• Fire extinguisher residue - Potassium bicarbonate powder left behind.

Additional equipment such as water extractors, dryers, and foggers are used as well.

Hiring a Professional Fire Restorer

When a deluge of water is needed to put out a structure fire (either from sprinklers or fire hoses), the potential for water damage must be addressed. If not, this leads to rotting in the construction and mold growth. 

Not all Dallas fire restoration companies can do water damage remediation, but SERVPRO can. We’ll coordinate fire and water damage restoration tasks that are tailored to your situation. We use high-powered water extractors and drying equipment so that moisture doesn’t have a chance to cause further damage.

The smell of smoke is a lingering reminder of fire damage. We use special deodorization equipment for unpleasant odor removal. Our professional fire restorers use Ultra Low Volume (ULV) foggers that atomize liquid deodorizing agents. This fine mist penetrates those areas that are deeply saturated with odor-causing residues. 

For confined spaces, our technicians use thermal foggers to distribute the gaseous solvent in large volumes. This fog neutralizes odor-causing particles by pairing with tiny deodorant solution particles.

We’re proud to say that we make it “Like it never even happened.” Our powerful equipment and an expert team of trained professionals makes our super-efficient fire restoration procedures possible.

Dallas Fire Restoration Benefits

To make the most of your insurance claim benefits it’s crucial to choose the right fire damage recovery company. Experience and consistency make all the difference. For over 30 years, SERVPRO in North Dallas has been repairing fire damaged homes and businesses with comprehensive restoration.

When you work with SERVPRO you’ll get:

• Full-service restoration - Being equipped to handle different types of damage means we do it all.
• Help with the insurance claims process - We are experienced in dealing with insurance companies. We’ll deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Reconstruction - Sometimes the damage is so severe it needs more than a clean-up. We’re prepared to fill the role of contractor and rebuild the structure - including roof work.
• Care for your possessions - We help document, store, and clean your valued items. If you must temporarily relocate during the restoration process, we’ll carefully move your items to safe storage. Live 24-hour security safeguards the property from theft.
• Special items - It may seem like some damaged items are a lost cause, but we have solutions. We will carefully clean your smoke damaged electronics. 

For cleaning smoke and water contaminated soft goods, we are the only Esporta Certified SERVPRO in Dallas. We’ll restore and sanitize precious items like antique table linens, favorite stuffed animals, wedding gowns, etc. in an industrial washing machine.

Contact SERVPRO for a Free Fire Restoration Estimate

SERVPRO is the leading Dallas fire damage restoration company in Dallas, TX. Fire damage disrupts your life - especially when it happens to the home you live in. We’re here to help you get back to life as usual as soon as possible. 

We are faster to any size disaster, and our decades of experience have made our fire damage restoration process exceptionally efficient. Our team of IICRC technicians has the expert knowledge, experience, and the best equipment to do the job right the first time so it’s the only time.

Secondary damage to your property might impact your insurance claim. To prevent this, you’ll want to get started on the house fire restoration process right away. We’re on standby 24-7. Call us anytime (972) 986-7677 with any questions or for free pricing.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Smoke Damage in Dallas?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Many insurance policies do cover smoke damage restoration. We accept all insurance claims. Contact us today for a free fire cleanup estimate.

Many homeowner's insurance policies cover the cost of smoke damage restoration.  Ask your insurance company to verify if it's part of your policy. 

What Does Smoke Remediation Cost?

The cost of smoke remediation largely depends on the size of the area that needs to be cleaned.  Larger spaces have higher costs.  Professional fire restoration companies also take other considerations into account when estimating the cost of smoke remediation, including:

• The type of smoke and soot particles needing to be cleaned.  Smoke and soot is produced by the incomplete combustion of the burning material, and different materials produce different types of soot.  Fires involving oil, grease, and plastics are harder to clean up and, therefore, will likely result in a higher cost. 
• Where the fire happened.  If the area has a lot of items that also need fire smoke cleanup, then expect higher costs. 
• If repairs are needed.  Many small fires where the restoration process just involves smoke remediation don’t need repairs.  If something does need to be repaired (like a wall), then that will increase your cost of fire damage restoration. 
• Did the smoke get into your air duct system?  An experienced fire cleanup company will know to inspect your air ducts.  If soot has settled inside, you’ll also need to add the cost of professional air duct and HVAC cleaning to your estimate. 
• How was the fire put out?  Many fires get put out with water.  If that also ended up causing a flood in your property, then water damage restoration will also be needed.  If the fire was put out with an extinguisher, that involves its own cleanup as well. 

Schedule an Estimate for Professional Smoke Removal

We offer free estimates for smoke and fire damage restoration in Dallas and surrounding areas.  Inspections are in-person, and our fire damage experts can be at your property when it's convenient for you. 

Give us a call today at (972) 986-7677 or contact us online to schedule a fire cleanup inspection. 

Filing a Claim for Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas

If your smoke damage is substantial, you may want to consider filing an insurance claim.  The first step is to contact your insurance company and let them know what’s happened.  Your insurance company will give you a claim number and the name and phone number of the adjuster assigned to process your claim.  

The fire damage restoration company you choose to clean your property is your choice.  Your insurance company must honor the company of your choice.  

After you have your claim information, give the restoration company of your choice a call.  

If you call us, we will send a fire damage expert to inspect your property and put together a free fire cleanup bid.  That estimate is sent to your adjuster, who will either deny or approve it.  

The process to finish an estimate takes just a couple of days, but your adjuster and insurance company may take longer to look at the estimate and approve it. 

What if Insurance Doesn’t Cover Smoke Damage Clean Up Cost?

If your insurance company doesn’t say that smoke damage is a covered part of your claim, we will work with you directly to find a way to make your cleanup and restoration possible.  

We offer:

• 0% interest financing
• Payment Plans

Fire Damage Repair

If your property suffered damage, our reconstruction division will repair everything.  We can repair small damages to fully-affected buildings.  Typical fire damage restoration repairs include:

• Drywall repair and new paint
• Ceiling repair
• Roof repair or replacement
• Floor replacement

Most repairs are covered under an insurance claim.  We will work closely with your insurance company to process your claim and get your property back to preloss condition. 

We’re a Fire Restoration Company in Dallas

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas headquartered minutes from downtown.  Our franchise is independently owned and operated, and we have been serving our hometown of North Texas since 1986.  We live and work in your community, and we’re always here to help our neighbors. 

We’re a full-service fire damage restoration company with decades of experience.  Our technicians are IICRC certified and available 24-hours a day, every day of the year. 

Give us a call today at (972) 986-7677. 

We’re Here to Help. 

What Does Dallas Fire Damage Restoration Cost?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

The cost of fire damage restoration depends on the severity of the damage. Call us at (972) 986-7677 for a free fire cleanup esetimate.

One of the first questions we receive right after one of our clients schedule an estimate for fire damage restoration is, “How much is this going to be?”

As with just about everything involving property restoration, the answer depends on a variety of factors:

• The extent and size of the damage
• The location of the damage inside of the property
• How much damage the contents inside of the property sustained
• If there is water damage or other firefighting efforts to clean up after

Getting an estimate together will require us to perform a property inspection.  We will take photographs, measurements, and get an understanding of what type of fire burned in your property and what services your property will need to get back to preloss condition.

We Offer Free Fire Damage Restoration Estimates in Dallas

Fire damage estimates are free and can be scheduled anytime.  Just give us a call at (972) 986-7677 or contact us online.  We offer service in Dallas and all surrounding areas. 

The inspection process is performed by a fire damage expert, and it usually takes about an hour for average-sized properties.  Fire damaged commercial properties may take a bit longer.  

Your estimate will follow soon after.  If this is part of an insurance claim, we’ll present the estimate to your insurance adjuster and work with them to get it approved. 

Fire Damage Cleaning

The fire damage cleaning process is custom-made for each of our clients.  It general involves:

• Deodorization.  To get rid of the contaminants in the air (which will also get rid of the smoke smell) we will install HEPA air scrubbers. 

• Air duct and HVAC cleaning.  Smoke and soot roam to cooler parts of a property, and that’s why it’s very common to find soot inside of air ducts.  A professional fire damage cleanup company will inspect your air docs and clean them if necessary. 

• Smoke and soot removal.  We will clean every surface of your home--floors, walls, and ceiling. 

• Cleaning of all belongings.  If any belongings were affected, they will also be cleaned.  If the number of items is substantial, we will move them out of your property temporarily so they can be cleaned at our facilities. 

• Cleaning of all clothing and textiles.  Our franchise is an Esporta Certified Operator, which means we are certified to sanitize clothing with embedded smoke and soot particles.  Our restoration rate is the best in the industry at over 85%. 

Fire Damage Repair Costs

Serious fires are likely to cause damage to a structure.  If we need to demolition any part of your property, then our reconstruction team will be assigned to repair and rebuild anything your property needs.  Our reconstruction manager will work with your insurance adjuster to let them know what exact repairs you need.  They will work with your adjuster to get all the services approved. 

Repairs we can perform include:

• Drywall
• Ceiling
• Flooring
• Cabinetry
• Exterior walls
• Roof
• Electrical
• HVAC
• Plumbing

We’re a Full-Service SERVPRO in Dallas

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas with over 30 years of experience in the disaster restoration industry.  We’ve restored thousands of properties for our North Texas neighbors in our decades of experience, and we can help you, too. 

Call us anytime.  We’re Here to Help. 

Dallas Fire Damage Experts Explain How to Tell If You Have a Clogged Dryer Vent and How to Fix It

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Fire safety tips

When it comes to house fires, there are the usual culprits we expect to find—smokers who leave cigarettes behind without extinguishing them, or Christmas tree lights shorting into an electrical fire. The kitchen is the usual place where the majority of fires start, so it may be surprising to know that your innocent-looking clothes dryer is also a major fire hazard. According to The National Fire Protection Association, malfunctioning or poorly-maintained clothes dryers are the main culprit in a significant number of house fires every year. To prevent your clothes dryer from starting a house fire, here are the top four signs you have a clogged dryer vent and how to fix it. 

How a Clogged Dryer Vent Can Cause a Dallas Fire

In most cases when a clothes dryer starts a Dallas fire, lint, fluff and other debris get stuck in the dryer hose and air vent. This reduces the airflow and backs up exhaust gas. If the dryer vent isn’t cleaned, it will cause a fire eventually. But it’s easy to avoid. Every year when you do a big deep clean, make sure you inspect and clean your air dryer vent. 

Not sure if you’ve got a clogged dryer vent on your hands? There are a few warning signs it’s happening. Act immediately if you notice any of the following. 

1. Your clothes and the dryer are hot. 

When you have a clogged dryer vent, you’ll often find that when you remove your clothes from the dryer, they are hot to the touch. This telltale sign means that the dryer is not exhausting properly. Clothes that are freshly dried should be warm, but not piping hot. The same is true for the dryer when it’s been doing its job. Warm is good, hot is not. 

2. You notice a burning smell coming from the dryer. 

If you notice a burning smell when the dryer is operating, this is a major sign that a fire is about to start. When highly-flammable pieces of lint get too hot, it creates a burning smell, and the lint can ignite inside the machine. If you notice a burning smell when using the dryer, turn it off immediately. Do not use the machine again until a professional inspects it and gives you the all-clear that it’s safe to use. 

3. The vent hood flap doesn’t open properly.

If you notice that there is a buildup of debris and lint on the outside vent or the dryer hose, then you know you have a dryer vent in need of some TLC. The dryer duct hood flap is designed to be opened. If the dryer duct does not open when the machine is working, then this is a sure sign that the airflow is being restricted thanks to a buildup of lint. 

4. Your clothes are taking longer to dry.

A clogged dryer vent is not just a fire hazard; it’s environmentally unfriendly and costs money. Each time you use your clothes dryer, you could find yourself twiddling your thumbs for an inordinately long time, waiting for clothes to dry. Clothes may take twice or even three times longer to dry when the dryer vent is clogged. The longer you use your clothes dryer, then the higher your bills will be at the end of the month. In addition, you’re also wearing out your machine and reducing its lifespan. 

A clothes dryer is not unlike a car with mileage, and so you could be replacing your dryer sooner than necessary because the clogged vent is putting wear-and-tear on the internal mechanisms. When a dryer vent is clogged, the warm, moist air stays in the cavity of the dryer and keeps your clothes damp, preventing them from drying as quickly as they should. 

It’s estimated that a 40-minute dryer cycle in an average dryer costs around 45 cents. And a typical household might use their dryer five times per week. This means that running your dryer for a year will cost around $117. So you’ll be spending an extra $117 to $234 if your dryer needs to run for 80 or 120 minutes to dry your clothes. And those figures don’t calculate how much you’ll spend on replacing worn-out dryers faster than normal. There are monetary, environmental, and fire prevention reasons to fix this issue today. 

How to clean your dryer vent in 5 easy steps. 

1. Locate your dryer vent. 

It’s always good to know what you’re looking for. You are looking for an exhaust that is around four inches in diameter at the back of the dryer. You also need to locate where it leads to the outside. There’ll be a plastic cover over the vent and it looks a bit like this:

Credit: Wikipedia

2. Pull the dryer out from the wall. 

Having located the vent, pull out the dryer and disconnect it from the power supply. Carefully remove any metal tape or clamps that are connecting the vent pipe to the exhaust. 

3. Clean the clogged dryer vent. 

You need to buy a kit specially designed to clean out your dryer vent. They cost under $20 usually and are essentially two six-feet long rods that connect. This makes a 12 foot-long pole, like a chimney sweep, enabling you to reach Inside the dryer. Use the brush in a circular motion to dislodge the lint and debris.  

4. Reconnect the dryer.

You can use a vacuum or dustpan and brush to remove lint and debris from the laundry room floor. Then reposition your dryer in the correct place and reconnect it. 

5. Try a test run. 

“It’s a dirty job, but someone’s gotta do it,” could’ve been coined for cleaning your dryer vent. But once you’ve finished, you’ll be blown away by how much more efficient your dryer is. You can rest easy knowing you’ve saved money and have taken an important step in fire prevention. Good job.  

Reach Out to Our SERVPRO in Dallas to Help Prevent Fires from a Clogged Dryer Vent

We hope a fire never happens in your home. Here at SERVPRO of North Irving, we’re experts in Dallas fire restoration. If you’ve had a house fire, we know you’re stressed and scared. But we can help put your house back in order with our fire restoration services while you catch your bearings. 

It might be that you are either unwilling or unable to clean your dryer vent yourself. You need to be able physically to pull out the dryer and bend and clean out the duct. Don’t let that be a reason to leave your dryer vent without its annual cleaning.  We can also come out to help you professionally clean your dryer vent once a year, in accordance with fire safety advice. 

The small cost of having your clogged dryer vent cleaned professionally will be easily offset by replacing your dryer less often. And it will also save you hundreds of dollars a year in reduced energy bills. Whether it’s fire damage restoration tips or a free no-obligation quote in Dallas, give us a call today at (972) 986 7677.

Dallas Smoke Damage: How to Get Rid of Fire Smoke in A House

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been a smoke damage cleanup company in Dallas for 30+ years. We restore homes and businesses from any size smoke and fire damage.

Smoke Damage

Cooking mistakes commonly cause smoke damage. Either something is forgotten on the stove or the oven. Smoke smell is usually strong in the room where the accident happened, but sometimes you end up smelling it all-around the house.  

The good news is that smoke damage can be taken care of.  

These tips are useful for people who have had a small accident that was taken care of very quickly.  

If your accident is severe enough to cause a fire or if you are experiencing nausea or headaches, leave the area and call a professional Dallas fire damage cleanup company. Inhaling fire smoke can be hazardous to your health.    

Light Smoke Damage Cleanup 

First, get rid of the source of the smell.

Whatever has burnt -- whether it be food or a kitchen towel that caught fire -- it’s time to throw it away. Wrap it with a plastic grocery or zip-lock bag to help seal the odor inside, and then carry it outside to the dumpster. Getting rid of the source will immediately eliminate the bulk of the smell out of your house. 

Next, ventilate. 

Open your doors and windows and let the smoke dissipate outdoors. Ventilation will help some of the smoke from settling in your home and will leave less for you to clean. 

Then, deep clean. 

Clean the room where the incident happened. Start at the top and work your way down -- this helps any small soot particles fall to the ground.

Wash walls, windows, and other surfaces with mild soap. Rinse thoroughly  

If you have cabinets or drawers in the area, open them up, clear them, and clean the inside of them as well. Whatever was in the cupboard or drawers should also be washed. 

Any knick-knack that can be washed needs to be cleaned, too. Continue using water and mild soap. 

Finally, if your floors are made of a hard surface, give them a good scrub. If you have carpet, you may want to rent a carpet cleaning machine at your local hardware store or hire a local carpet cleaning company to deep wash it for you.  

Are you thinking about using candles and aerosols? Save the expense. These items mask smoke odor for a little while. The smoke smell won’t be gone until all the smoke particles have been removed from your home. 

Not Enough? Time for Pro Dallas Smoke Damage Cleanup

If the steps above didn’t go the trick or if you have clothing, carpet, or furniture and upholstery, then it’s time to consider hiring a smoke damage restoration company. Be prepared to tell them:

• What caused the smoke damage. Smoke is particles of that time that did not fully combust and is now in the air. Different items create different types of smoke, which require various techniques to clean properly. 
• Where it occurred. 
• Where you smell the smoke. 
• What types of items are affected. They will bring the right tools and equipment to clean whatever was affected. 

A smoke damage cleaning company will visit your home and inspect the damage. They may bring specialized sponges to test different surfaces of your home and check for smoke and soot particles.  

After their inspection, they should give you an estimate for the cleanup and a general timeline of how the cleanup process will take. 

If the damage is significant enough and you need to file an insurance claim, the odor removal company should be able to work with your insurance adjuster to help process your claim. Ask them if they have experience with insurance claims before you hire them. 

Smoke Damage Repair

Cleaning smoke damage in a house will require different tools, techniques, and an eye for fine detail. Since smoke can get anywhere, the cleanup process can be time and work-intensive. These are some techniques you may see used:

Removing Smoke Odor From Clothing

Throwing your clothes into your home washing machine may not get rid of smoke smell. In some instances, your clothes may smell worse as the smoke particles embed themselves deeper into your clothing fibers. The most effective way to get the smoke particles (and thus the smoke smell) out of your clothes is to get them washed in a machine called the Esporta Wash System.  

Advanced restoration providers have these sophisticated machines in their offices. The device uses water, hydraulic pressure, and a mixture of up to six detergents to make your clothing and other textiles food-grade safe. 

Ask your smoke damage restoration company what method they use to clean clothes. 

Ozone Generators

If you’ve searched for smoke damage cleanup, then chances are that you’ve seen articles about ozone generators. Ozone can effectively eliminate smoke odor, but should only be used carefully. For best results, hire a professional. 

Deep Wash Carpet Cleaning

Your carpet may be able to be saved. Ask for a deep wash carpet cleaning. Professional fire damage restoration providers use powerful truck-mounted carpet cleaners to push detergent-laden hot water into the fibers of your carpet and extractors to get the soot out. 

Upholstery and Drapery Cleaning

If your smoke damage cleanup company has carpet cleaning machines, chances are they will also have the proper equipment to clean your drapes and upholstery the same way they did your carpets. Upholstery and drape cleaning tools are made to handle the delicate fibers. 

Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Smoke rises into the air and can settle inside of your air ducts. The next time your AC turns on and blows air, that soot will blow out with it. This is why it’s important to get your air ducts inspected and the soot removed before the AC runs again. 

Ultrasonic Cleaning

If your items need to be cleaned, a sophisticated fire damage cleanup company will have an ultrasonic cleaning machine. This machine looks like a tub of water with billions of small bubbles floating inside. Items are dunked inside the device along with detergent, and every part of the piece is thoroughly cleaned in just minutes. 

Move-Out, Storage, and Move-Back

When fire and smoke damage is bad enough, some or all of your home’s contents may have to be temporarily moved out to be able to clean your home correctly. Ask your fire restoration company how your items will be inventoried, cleaned, and stored. 

Dallas Fire Damage Restoration

If your smoke damage was caused by a large fire that caused damage to your home, read about our fire restoration process. Fire cleanup can be hazardous and should be left to experienced professionals with the proper safety equipment and tools. 

We Provide Fire Restoration Near You

Need some help? We’re here for you. We've been fire and smoke odor removal specialists for over 30 years, and we have restored thousands of Dallas properties after damage, and we guide our clients from the start of their restoration to the very end.  

Give us a call or leave us a message and let us know what’s happened. We’ll meet you and give you a free consultation and estimate. 

10 Steps You Should Take After a Dallas Fire

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Fire is not something that people think about too often. That is until it affects them in some way.

When fire ravages your home or office, it can be a stressful and confusing time. It can leave you feeling vulnerable and alone. However, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath of a fire on your own. There are Dallas fire cleanup companies who can help you understand and navigate the entire process.

If you ever find yourself in the midst of a fire disaster, don’t lose hope. Stay calm and remember the steps to take following a fire. Before you know it, things will get back to normal and you’ll be “back on your feet”. 

1. Initiate Emergency Contact

First things first, when dealing with a complicated fire situation that’s out of your control, it’s best to call in emergency responders. It’s not the same for all parts of the world but in the U.S., you should dial 911. When your local fire department responds, they should eventually compile a fire report. Don’t forget to ask how to get a copy of this report. 

Next, research the fire cleanup companies in your area. There is one thing to remember here: Don’t settle for anything less than 1 company who can provide 100% restoration. In the Dallas area, SERVPRO is a full-service fire and water damage restoration firm. With a wide range of services, we’re a one-stop-shop for customers:

•     24/7 emergency service available
•     Board-up and roof-tarp services
•     Water damage remediation
•     Cleaning and taking inventory of belongings
•     Help with moving in, moving out, and storage
•     Restoration of textiles and electronics
•     Removing smoke and fire odors
•     Roof replacement
•     Reconstruction (if we tear it out, we’ll rebuild it)
•     Live, 24-hour security

During initial contact, we ask questions about the fire event to determine what equipment and resources are appropriate. Then, we arrange to begin the cleanup and restoration job immediately.

2. Make Sure It’s Okay To Enter The Building

Before you or anyone else enters a fire-damaged building, make sure to get the go-ahead to do so. Depending on the severity of the fire, structural integrity could be compromised. Emergency responders should advise when it is safe.

3. Contact Your Dallas Insurance Provider 

Let your homeowners' insurance company know about the fire. This is when you should give them the details of the disaster restoration company you want to use (i.e. tell them you’re using SERVPRO for cleanup and reconstruction). The adjuster should give you a claim number to pass along to the cleanup company. Always remember that it’s your right to go with a fire damage restoration firm of your choosing. 

4. Schedule An Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Once you’re given the okay to re-enter a structure, it’s time to get to work (or rather, put the fire cleanup companies to work). An inspection should be completed to identify the extent of the fire damage. This is key in establishing the right plan of action. 

When our SERVPRO technicians visit a property, they conduct a comprehensive inspection. They document the scope of the damage and prepare an estimate for the client’s insurance company. From there, our team works with insurance adjusters to get the claim approved as soon as possible. After claim approval, we can move forward with additional fire damage services.

5. Secure The Property

As previously mentioned, fire can result in damage to the structural integrity of a building. In some situations, the walls, windows, and roof are weakened to the point where belongings are exposed to the elements (and possibly criminals). 

The solution here is to immediately tarp the roof and board up the exposed areas of the building. This not only protects the structure from further damage but also provides some security. Fire cleanup companies like SERVPRO are experienced in board-up and roof-tarp services. Moreover, if it’s necessary, we’ll send a security guard to watch your property while it’s exposed. 

6. Find Shelter

Unfortunately, a fire can do so much damage to a home that it’s deemed temporarily unlivable. In this case, you’ll want to organize for a place to stay. If you don’t have family members or friends who can provide shelter, there are other resources available such as Insurance policies with short-term housing options, disaster relief organizations, and government programs dedicated to large-scale disasters (i.e. FEMA or state agencies) 

7. Employ A Water Removal and Drying Service

 If water is present, it should be handled in a specialized manner. Hidden moisture can cause a whole mess of problems including mold and bacteria growth.

When considering fire cleanup companies, look for a firm who has extensive experience in water removal and extraction. For example, our SERVPRO utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to ensure water is properly removed and items are effectively cleaned. Additionally, we are the only SERVPRO in Dallas who is Esporta certified (we can clean textiles affected by contaminated water). 

But wait, there’s more. We carry a whole host of other certifications as well:

•     WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician)
•     ASD (Applied Structural Drying Technician)
•     FSRT (Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician)
•     IICRC Certified Firm
•     OSHA (10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program)
•     RRRP (Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation)
•     ECTP (Employee Certification Training Program)

8. Remove Smoke and Soot

After a fire, there’s a ton of cleaning work to do. More than likely, you’ll find soot on belongings. And, there may be an overwhelming odor of smoke. Qualified fire cleanup companies should be well versed in the specific procedures to clean smoke and soot.

At SERVPRO, we use propriety chemicals to remove smoke and soot. We clean the entire property as well as the items inside to ensure all smoke particles are eliminated.

9. Clean and Sanitize Structure and Belongings

If items and structures are salvageable, they should go through a heavy-duty cleaning and sanitizing process.

After we remove smoke and soot, we clean, sanitize, and disinfect belongings to bring them back to pre-fire condition. This includes using ozone, air scrubbers, or foggers to deodorize property and possessions.  

10. Restore The Structure

Restoration involves anything from minor repairs to reconstruction. Keep in mind not all cleanup firms can provide full restoration services. Many companies will tear out damage, but they’ll leave the homeowner or business owner deal with reconstruction.

As a full-service restoration firm, the techs at SERVPRO of North Irving can rebuild anything that needs to be torn out. We work hard to ensure properties get back to their former glory.

Rely On a Dallas Fire Cleanup Company You Can Trust

Really, it comes down to finding a company who can do all the heavy lifting for you. Our goal is to take as much weight off our customers’ shoulders as we possibly can. You should expect nothing less than this! 

If you’d like to learn more about our SERVPRO services, get in touch!

Common Causes of Fire Damage in Dallas

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

We are a full-service SERVPRO in Dallas ready to restore any property in need of fire damage restoration. Call or contact us anytime.

Fire damage can be devastating. As we all know, a fire can be detrimental to your property, health, and pocketbook. But, we can tell you that property fire damage can be overcome. It’s possible to bounce back.

You may be here looking for advice on the aftermath of fires, which we have plenty of information on.  If you are fortunate enough to not have experienced fire damage, we have recommendations on how to prevent fire damage from happening. 

SERVPRO technicians have been restoring properties after fire and water cleanup for decades.  When folks are looking for fire restoration in Dallas, we’re the ones they call.  For this reason, we’ve decided to share the most common causes of fire damage as well as how to prevent them.

1. Cooking

We’re starting with the leading cause of home fires and fire-related injuries. It’s no wonder why kitchen fires pose a fire threat.  After all, it’s where open flames and heat live.  It’s relatively easy for items such as oil, food, clothing, and paper towels to quickly catch fire.

Fortunately, the best way to prevent kitchen fires is simple: pay attention to what you’re cooking.  If you have to walk away when the stove or oven is on, make sure someone else is watching it in your absence.

Kitchen fires are the main reason why we’re called in for residential and commercial fire damage restoration in Dallas.

2. Smoking

Smoking is the number one cause of residential fires resulting in death. You’ve probably heard the stories before: someone falls asleep while smoking and wakes up to a burning bed or couch. Or, a cigarette doesn’t get fully extinguished so it continues to burn until it turns into a big fire.

Simply put, smoking indoors is not a safe practice. And, it’s not just cigarettes that we’re talking about. E-cigarettes also pose risks since some malfunctions can cause them to explode. If you need a cigarette or e-cig, try only using them outdoors. And, when putting out a cigarette, ensure that it is properly extinguished.

3. Heaters

Following cigarettes, the portable heater is the next major cause of fire-related deaths. It’s all innocent enough. It gets cold in the winter so you fire up the furnace or heater. But, you may also break out the space heater to help you get a little toastier. This is fine, but just be careful while it’s on.

When using a portable heater, place it in an area that’s free of curtains and furniture. Also, keep your clothing and body parts away from the heating elements. And, don’t leave a small heater running if you’re not around to keep an eye on it.

Energy.gov has a lot more safety information for portable heaters. 

4. Malfunctioning Appliances and Wiring

Appliance and/or wiring issues are the leading causes of electrical fires. A significant problem that arises here is that these fires are often hard to extinguish since water conducts electricity.

There are many possible culprits of electrical fires:

•     Faulty outlets
•     Frayed cords
•     Aging appliances
•     Running cords under carpet or rugs
•     Too many plugs in one outlet or power strip

You have the ability to control what appliances you use and how many electrical items are plugged in.  When it comes to wiring issues, however, it’s wise to enlist the help of an electrician to figure out the problem.  The best preparation for electrical fires is to make sure you have a fire extinguisher that handles class C fires (there should be a label on the canister).

If an appliance catches fire, unplug the device as soon as you can (or turn off the electricity if you can’t get to the plug).  If you find yourself without an extinguisher when a small electrical fire breaks out, try pouring baking soda over the flames. 

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas

No matter the cause, we’re always here to help our neighbors in need of fire cleanup.  We are a full-service fire damage restoration company with a team of experts ready to help. 

Call or contact us anytime for a free disaster cleanup estimate.  

5.  Chemicals

If you’re like a countless number of homeowners and business owners, you probably have a spot where you keep chemicals. There’s a good chance that a flammable liquid is lurking around in there somewhere.

Reading the labels on your chemicals, pay attention to the storage recommendation, and follow it accordingly.  And, when you’re using a flammable chemical, handle it with care.

6. Fireplace

Fireplaces are excellent for setting a cozy mood, but, a fireplace holds a hidden danger: buildup. Creosote is a flammable matter that can build up and cause a fire to spread from a chimney to other parts of a building or house. Also, animals can get into chimney spaces and leave behind fire-catching debris.

Luckily, there aren’t too many steps involved in fireplace maintenance:

• Look for brown or black buildup in the fireplace and chimney.
• Check for critter nests and debris.
• If you notice any problematic material, utilize a chimney sweeping service.
• Perform a fireplace inspection at least once a year.

7. Candles

Candles are delightful. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the smell of cake and cookies without the calories! However, an open flame is always a hazard.

Responsible candle ownership is key here.  Never leave your candles unattended, always blow out lit candles before you leave a room, and make sure there are no flammable items near your candles (i.e. paper, facial tissue, and chemicals).

8. Childhood Wonderment

We’re sure your children (and the children you know) are little angels.  It’s just the nature of kids to be curious (and sometimes even a little mischievous).  It’s not unheard of for a child to light a small fire that quickly rages out of control. 

Teaching kids the dangers of playing with fire is important.  If you have matches, lighters, or flammable liquids, put them in a safe place that’s not accessible to children.  Additionally, regularly check your smoke detectors to make sure they’re functioning correctly.

30+ Year Leader in Dallas Fire Damage Restoration

For over 30 years, SERVPRO of North Irving has been a go-to fire damage expert in North Texas.  We are the preferred fire cleanup company for many insurance companies because we help our clients from start to end--from cleanup to reconstruction. 

Our franchise specializes in fire damage assessment, smoke and soot removal, emergency board-up and tarp services, and cleaning and repair.  Plus, if there is water present after firefighting efforts, we handle water damage restoration, too. 

Call or contact us anytime.  We’re here to help. 

How Safe Is Your Fireplace? Find Out From Our Dallas Fire Damage Experts

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Your fireplace transforms your living room into an excellent, cozy place to relax after a long day. However, simply kicking your feet up in front of the fire, day after day (without completing key care tasks and inspections) can result in disaster.

Creosote buildup, a byproduct of wood combustion consisting of tar and other flammable substances, can cause fires to start in your chimney and spread across your home. To prevent this, you need to check for common problems and have your fireplace regularly serviced by a professional.

Otherwise, you may end up needing help from experts skilled in Dallas fire restoration to clean up the resulting disaster.

Signs Your Fireplace Needs Attention

Over time, creosote builds up on the inside walls of your woodstove, fireplace, and chimney. This sticky substance contains highly flammable compounds that can catch fire instantly. This layer develops as condensation builds on the inner chimney surfaces – and ash, unburnt fuel, and chemical byproducts stick to it.  

With a quick look inside your fireplace and up the chimney, you can see the telltale brown and black buildup on the inner surfaces. Both the look and the smell of your fireplace can signify the need for creosote removal. And don’t fall under the impression that these risks only affect wood-burning fireplaces. Gas fireplaces produce creosote, as well, and therefore carry the same risks as their wood-burning counterparts.

Whether you use natural gas or propane fuel, these fireplace designs produce even more condensation than wood-burning ones do. The increased water vapor greatly accelerates creosote buildup. Gas fires also tend to allow incomplete combustion that sends unburnt fuel up the chimney where it sticks to condensation on the inner walls. This creates an extremely flammable environment that could easily catch fire.

Birds and animals can also increase your risk of fire by bringing debris into your chimney. Debris, critters setting up potential nests, and even nearby tree branches all put you at a higher risk for a fire.

Regular Maintenance Requirements For Fireplaces in Dallas

The main risk factors of chimney fires are highly preventable. You just need to commit to a regular maintenance schedule to mitigate your risks. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that you inspect your fireplace and chimney at least once per year. During this check, you should verify that its structure remains sound and free of creosote buildup.

Some Important Steps to Include in Your Check:

• Remember to look for the presence of wildlife and accompanying nests inside the chimney and any tree branches close to the opening
• Verify that nothing is blocking your chimney top or any ventilation pipes to prevent fires
• If you find ? inch or more of creosote, have your chimney swept
• If the creosote looks glazed, the cleaning process needs to begin ASAP, as this is a dangerous state for the buildup to be in

As creosote can damage your masonry with its acidic substances, setting up a regular care routine is really a win-win. When having your chimney cleaned, hiring a professional to physically sweep the inner surface is your best bet. You can help keep buildup to a minimum between service dates by burning special logs and other products designed to remove creosote.

Risks Of Continuing To Use An Unsafe Fireplace

Without the removal of creosote buildup, the tiniest spark could set the whole chimney on fire.

These fires are virtually impossible for homeowners to put out themselves. While waiting for emergency services, chimney fires have the potential to rage out of control and spread into the living space. If the house is not lost, crews skilled in fire restoration will need to come to repair the damage.

Efforts to put out the fire can take a serious toll on your home. The water used to squelch the flames can result in the need for flood damage cleanup, as well. Leaving the water to dry on its own can result in mold growth that further compromises the condition of your living space. At that point, you would need to get Dallas water removal and mold remediation services from disaster and fire cleanup companies to fully repair the damage.

You can greatly reduce your risks of chimney fires with regular inspections and maintenance services. When you put safety above all else, you also help preserve your comfort and convenience for the long-term.

How Dallas Fire Cleanup Companies Can Help If An Incident Occurs

Even with your best efforts at maintaining a strict upkeep schedule, the risk of fire is always there while using your gas or wood-burning fireplace. If a fire ever does start in your chimney, evacuate your home and immediately call 911 to request aid from the Dallas fire department.

If restoration is possible, you can receive helpful guidance and support from a local Dallas fire cleanup company of your choosing. They will use the leading fire damage restoration techniques to restore the condition of your home.

In addition to handling fire and smoke cleanup, these companies also take care of the damage caused by the crew tasked with putting the fire out, including Dallas mold remediation. While working to restore your home to pre-fire conditions, they will even deep clean your furniture upholstery to remove water, soot deposits and the strong odor of smoke.  

You can receive 24/7 emergency service from your trusted fire and water damage restoration company by calling 972 986 7677. Our highly trained restoration experts can clean up disasters of any size, so reach out anytime you need help.

Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas Apartments

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Estimate for fire damage restoration in Dallas, Texas and surrounding communities are free. Call us anytime to schedule a fire damage expert.

When a Dallas apartment fire happens, many units are usually affected.  While the apartment that originally caught fire will most likely have the most fire damage, surrounding apartments usually need fire damage clean up, too.  Some apartment fires are bad enough to affect the roof of multiple units.  

SERVPRO responds to Dallas fire damage in apartment complexes regularly.  We’ve handled every size of fire damage from a small, smoke-only stove fire, to larges fires affecting dozens of units. 

Apartment Renter’s Insurance and Fire Remediation

When you sign your lease agreement, you may or may not have to get renter’s insurance.  Renter's insurance isn't legally mandatory, but some apartment complexes still require you to get it in case of an emergency.  

If there is fire damage in your apartment complex, your renter's insurance can cover the cost of fire damage cleanup for everything inside of your unit.

The apartment complex usually takes care of the unit itself, so renters will only be responsible for cleaning the smoke damage from their contents and clothing.

We’re a Fire Cleanup Company Near You

Our SERVPRO franchise is a leader in Dallas restoration.  We are often the preferred fire cleanup company for complex apartment fire damage restoration because of our decades of experience and full-service capabilities.  

• 30+ years of experience in disaster restoration. 
• All insurance is accepted. 
• Each of our clients is assigned a Project Coordinator to guide them from start to finish. 
• We work with insurance adjusters to get everything you need to be approved to get back to normal. 
• Full-service.  We do everything from water damage restoration after firefighting efforts to reconstruction. 

Call or contact us today for a free fire damage estimate.  

When to Call A Dallas Fire Restoration Company

As soon as you realize there is fire damage to your apartment unit, give us a call.  We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for any size of fire damage in Dallas, TX. 

By law, no one can tell you which disaster cleanup company to use.  Only you can decide which fire clean up company to use. 

When you call us, we get to work quickly:

• Immediate dispatch to inspect the type of fire damage your property has sustained. 
• We will create an inventory of all of your items and report them to your insurance company.  Your items will be split into two groups: those that can be cleaned (salvageable), and those that need replacement (unsalvageable). 
• Immediate communication with your insurance adjuster to let them know which specific fire damage restoration services you need to get back to normal. 

Salvageable Items

Salvageable items are those that can be cleaned and completely restored back to how they were before the fire.  These items are packed up and taken to our cleaning facilities where they are sanitized and deodorized of all smoke particles.  The items are then either stored in one of our storage locations until your apartment has been cleaned and you move back in, or they can be moved to wherever you are living.

Unsalvageable Items

Unsalvageable items are those that have been destroyed by the fire.  They cannot be cleaned and saved.  With these items, we take inventory and report them to your insurance company.  Your insurance adjuster will receive a list of all of the items that were permanently damaged in the fire along with a suggested price for a replacement.  Ultimately, it is up to your insurance adjuster to decide how to replace these items for you.

Sometimes items may be burnt beyond recognition and may not be replaced as it is impossible to tell what they once were.  For this reason, we strongly recommend you have a home inventory of your items before any disaster occurs.  A home inventory will provide proof of your items to your insurance adjuster.  

How to Get Smoke Damage Out of Clothes

One of the first things that someone needs after fire damage is clothing.  Regular washing machines do not take the fire smoke odor out of clothes.  Neither does dry cleaning.  

In fact, some clothing can be permanently damaged when they are put into a regular washing machine or dry cleaned after a fire smoke damage.

It's best to trust professional textile cleaners to wash your fire and smoke damaged clothes.  

One of the first things that our office will do when we arrive is pack up your entire wardrobe.  In a matter of fewer than two days, we can wash and remove fire smoke odor from 100 pounds of your clothing and return it to you immediately.  We know you need a wardrobe to live from while the rest of your unit is being restored, and we are dedicated to providing you with one.

We are one of the few Texas disaster restoration businesses that are certified by the Esporta Wash System. This makes us uniquely qualified to sanitize and remove smoke odor from:

• All types of clothing and textiles
• Blankets
• Shoes
• Stuffed animals
• Leather goods
• Sports equipment

Our Esporta Wash System uses natural detergents to clean your items with water using the science behind hydraulic pressure.  The result is a sanitized item with a near-neutral pH that is safe and comfortable to wear again. 

Our office has one of the highest rates of clothing fire smoke odor restoration with over 85% success rate--among the highest in the industry. 

Moving Services

In order for the apartment unit to be cleaned, everything that is inside of it usually has to be taken out.  All of your items will be packed and moved to our cleaning facility where they will have all smoke and soot cleaned away and deodorized.  Your items can either be stored in our long-term storage facility or they can be dropped off at your new living quarters.

Temporary and Long-Term Storage

Our franchise has its own storage for our customers.  We have the capability to store items of all sizes for a short-term or long-term period.  What our customers need items back, we simply move them to their new living location.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas

From the perspective of the apartment owner, we know that business disruption is expensive.  We understand that you need to get your apartment units cleaned and running again.  Our goal is to make sure that all of your units are clean and safe again for your renters so they can move back in.

While your renters will each have their own and renter’s insurance company handling their portion of their claims, we will also work with you and your insurance company to make sure that your claim is approved and all of your units are clean and reconstructed as soon as possible.

Commercial Property Insurance

We work with all insurance companies and adjusters.  We have processed thousands of insurance claims over our 30 years of experience, and we know exactly how to process apartment complex fire damages.  

As soon as you call your insurance company and get your claim number, give our office a call so that the Project Coordinator can get in contact with your insurance adjuster to start processing your claim immediately.

By law, your insurance company cannot tell you which fire damage restoration company to use.  It is your choice. 

When you choose to work with SERVPRO as your Dallas fire damage restoration company, trust that you have one of the most experienced and trusted leaders and fire damage restoration working for you.

Emergency Roof Tarping

One of the first things that you are responsible for as an apartment complex owner is to install temporary protective measures to prevent secondary damage.  Emergency fire damage services such as roof tarping and board-ups are exactly this.  

Secondary damage is any damage that happens after the fire that could have been prevented if emergency measures were taken.  If your insurance company finds that you did not take proper care of your property after fire damage, it has the ability to deny your claim.  This is why emergency services are so important after fire damage.

When a roof is damaged during a fire, it has to be covered with weatherproof tarping.  Our technicians will install the temporary tarp to make sure that precipitation does not enter the unit and cause secondary damage such as water damage or mold growth.

After the temporary roof tarping is installed, we will take roof measurements and turn in an estimate to your insurance company so that we can have a permanent roof replacement.

Emergency Board-up

Just like emergency roof tarping, fire damage will also likely need emergency board up services.  This is when we install boards on damaged doors, windows, and outer walls.  This is important to prevent weather from coming inside of the building and causing secondary damage.  It also tells possible thieves that the property is being taken care of.  It's an unfortunate fact that theft often occurs when a fire damaged property is not boarded up.

If weather conditions prevent us from safely boarding up or tarping your apartment complex, we will hire a live security guard to stand watch for 24 hours a day until our technicians can safely work.

Apartment Fire Damage Cleanup

It is very likely that your renters' contents will all have to be removed from the unit for us to be able to properly clean it.  We will work with your renter directly and their renter's insurance company to pay for the moving and cleaning of their items to our cleaning facility.  Even though your renters may all have different renters insurance companies, our office will handle all of them individually.

We will remove the contents from all apartments as fast as possible so that we can get the cleanup of your units started quickly.

There are different types of smoke and soot depending on what items were burned during the fire.  Every type of smoke needs a different type of cleaning method.  Our technicians are experienced and will identify the type of smoke and clean it properly.  If the apartment units have carpeting, we will perform carpet restoration services at this time as well.

If any part of the unit is permanently damaged, our technicians will demolition that portion of the unit and prepare it for reconstruction.

Fire Smoke Odor Removal

Smoke damage restoration is necessary.  You know your apartment is cleaned of all smoke and soot when you were able to walk in and not recognize that there was ever a fire inside.  Fire smoke odor removal and deodorization after fire damage are important, and the most important reason is the health of the occupant.

Our office uses HEPA vacuum filtration to make sure that all smoke particles are removed from the air.  Along with fire damage cleanup, we may also use other deodorant removal techniques such as fogging and ozone to ensure that all fire smoke odor is removed.

Reconstruction

Once the apartment unit has been thoroughly cleaned and deodorized, it is time for the apartment to be put back together.  Any part of the unit that was permanently burned will now be replaced by a reconstruction team.  The result is an apartment that looked the same as it was before the fire occurred.

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas

If you have a fire in Dallas today, you have the option to choose a full-service fire water damage restoration leader with decades of experience in fire damage--SERVPRO of North Irving. 

Our franchise is based out of Dallas, TX, and we arrive anywhere in DFW shortly after your call.  We have helped clean up homes and businesses in our hometown for over 30 years.  We know how to properly clean and restore all properties, and we have performed residential and commercial restoration in Dallas

Our IICRC certified technicians are available to dispatch for 24-hour emergencies every day of the year.

We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.  

Call us anytime.  We’re here to help. 

Fire Damage Restoration Equipment Used by Our Dallas Experts

1/6/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO professionals are your trusted leaders in fire damage restoration. We have serviced Dallas since 1986.

Board Ups for Dallas Residents

Board ups are needed on an emergency basis and are usually one of the first things that happen in fire damage. After the fire department leaves, a property is sometimes left with damaged doors and windows. These open spaces create two problems.  

First, damaged entryways allow the weather to enter the property.  If rain, snow, or just natural moisture enter the property and wet items, the property is setting itself up for both water damage and mold growth.  This type of damage is considered secondary damage, which an insurance company will not typically cover if it can prove that a property owner could have taken steps to prevent it but didn’t.  It’s important to seal entryways with weatherproof barriers to prevent both secondary damages to your property and to help your fire damage insurance claim be wholly covered.

Secondary, damaged entryways make it easier for thieves to enter your property.  It’s unfortunate but common for robberies to occur in fire damaged properties. Even though many items inside have been damaged, thieves typically ransack the home looking for anything valuable.  Boarding up doors and windows both make it harder for thieves to enter, and the barriers send a clear message that the property is being taken care of.

When the weather prevents our office from immediately boarding up a property, we will hire a live security offer to monitor your property.  

Learn more about our emergency board up services.

Roof Tarping

Another part of a property that typically needs immediate attention is the roof.  We will install a temporary roof tarp to all damaged portions of your roof to prevent any precipitation from entering the property and causing secondary damage.  Secondary damage to your property from a leaking roof can include water damage which then leads to mold growth.

The roof tarp is meant to be a temporary security and safety measure.  After the tarp has been secured, our office will send your insurance company an estimate to permanently fix or replace your damaged roof.  See our pictures of previous roof tarping jobs.  

Thermal Foggers

An ultra low volume fogger is specialized equipment that we use when deodorizing a home or business after fire damage.  The fogger vaporizes solvent-based deodorizers and creates what looks like smoke. This “smoke” is made up of very small particles that will reach the tiny crevices that a person cannot otherwise clean with traditional methods.  The use of ULV foggers has risks and should only be used by professionals with training and experience.

Ozone

Ozone is used for fire damage deodorization.  Items that have been wiped of soot but still retain smoke odor are typically sent to our specialized ozone room.  Items that are being treated with ozone remain in the ozone room until the smoke odor has been eliminated. Just like ULV foggers, ozone should only be used by a trained professional.

Commercial Air Duct Cleaner

Our office uses commercial air duct cleaners to clear residential and commercial air duct vents of all soot.  Smoke contains very small particles of the substance that was just burnt. When a fire occurs, the properties of smoke say that the smoke will first travel to places in a property where the temperature is cooler.  Oftentimes, this means that the air ducts in that property will become full of smoke. When the smoke cools, it settles into the air ducts and becomes soot.

When we inspect a property for fire damage, one of the first places we will inspect is the air duct system. If it needs to be cleaned, it’ll be one of the first things that is taken care of by our Dallas fire damage restoration experts. The last thing a homeowner needs is to have their entire home cleaned only to turn on their air conditioner and have fresh soot blow throughout their home!

Our air duct cleaners are commercial grade and clean air ducts of all sizes.  Visit our air duct cleaning page to learn more.

Truck Mount Carpet Cleaner

A typical carpet cleaner will just not be powerful enough to get a smoke and soot affected carpet clean again.  A typical carpet cleaner that you can purchase at an electronics store or rent from a grocery store do a decent job with day to day wear, but smoke and soot permeate the fibers of a carpet and require a deeper clean.  

In our SERVPRO production vehicles, we have specialized and commercial truck mounts that help us extract water after flooding.  These truck mounts also have the ability to deep clean carpets. SERVPRO has developed a carpet cleaning method for fire and smoke that involves hot water extraction and specialized shampoos.  Our cleaning has been refined after decades of research and is an effective cleaning method for fire damaged carpets.

Fire Damage Sponges

Fire damage cleanup is rarely as straightforward as many people think.  Our technicians use specialized sponges that are specifically made to capture the fine soot particles that embed themselves into walls and furniture.  Before applying any chemicals to clean surfaces, we will first wipe the entire surface with fire damage cleaning sponge to remove as much soot as possible.  

Ultrasonic Wash System

An ultrasonic machine is a sophisticated piece of equipment that we often use in fire damage clean up.  An ultrasonic machine looks like a very large tub that is filled with water and proprietary chemicals made to remove soot from items.

Items that need to be cleaned are loaded into the machine and dipped into the water.  The water itself looks like billions of tiny bubbles are swimming inside of it. The bubbles are caused by high frequency, low amplitude vibrations.  Items remain in the ultrasonic bath until all the smoke and soot particles are removed from the item. This process usually takes no more than a few minutes.  

After the items have been cleaned, they are removed from the ultrasonic machine and transferred into a specialized drying chamber.  After items are dry, they are packed and stored for the homeowner.

Esporta Wash System

The Esporta Wash System is the most effective way to sanitize clothing and other textiles after fire damage.  Soot is acidic, which makes it damaging to clothing once it touches it. The longer soot is allowed to remain on a piece of clothing, the higher the chance that is will permanently stain it.  Clothing is also a necessity for everyone, and one of the first things a family needs after fire damage is fresh clothing to wear. For these reasons, we work to quickly pack up all clothing and textiles from a home and take it back to our fire damage cleaning facility for processing.

An Esporta machine looks like a large front loading washing machine, but inside of it are chambers where we load clothing.  Once the machine is running, the chambers of clothing spin rapidly inside the machine which forces the detergent-laden water to push all smoke and soot particles out of the clothing.  A typical Esporta wash lasts well over an hour with a variety of six different detergents used. Esporta proprietary chemicals are environmentally friendly and result in clothing having a near neutral pH after a wash.

We introduce different cleaning agents to each load we wash until the item of clothing is food grade clean, meaning it is safe to wear again.  

The Esporta Wash System is safe for almost every type of clothing and textile, including shoes, stuffed animals, and leather.  After a wash, the clothing is transported to a specialized drying chamber.

We are one of the few businesses in Texas licensed by the Esporta Wash System.  We have successfully restored thousands of pieces of clothing and textiles. Our restoration rate is over 85% -- one of the highest in the industry.

SERVPRO Proprietary Chemicals and Detergents

SERVPRO has developed many chemicals that help us properly clean after fire damage.  We have perfected the use of our own proprietary chemicals after decades of research of experience.

Trusted Leader in Fire Damage: Dallas, TX

SERVPRO of North Irving is locally owned and operated leader in the restoration industry.  We have the expertise to handle any size smoke and fire damage restoration in Dallas, TX. We have performed residential and commercial restoration work in the Dallas community or over 30 years.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year. We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.  Call us any time!

Fire Damage Restoration Articles:

Fire Insurance Claim Process

Fire Restoration Process

Fire Damage Restoration Terms

Fire Insurance Claim Process in Dallas

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO to handle your fire damage restoration in Dallas. We have restored thousands of properties since 1986.

When you experience a fire damage in your home, one of the first questions that is likely to pop into your mind is, “Will my home insurance pay for this?”

We have helped thousands of families navigate the fire insurance claims process, and we can help you, too.  Our office in Dallas routinely works with every insurance company. We also work hand in hand with insurance adjusters on a daily basis to help process claims.

Every fire damage is different.  This is what you can you generally expect one happens.

Evacuate and Call 911

When a fire occurs, the most important thing is always the safety of every occupant on the property.  Evacuate your home immediately and call 911.

When Fire Damage Restoration Companies Approach You

It’s only when the fire department has cleared the scene that it is appropriate for any company to begin the fire damage restoration process.  If you remain on your property while the firefighters are working, you may notice various disaster restoration companies approach you.  These representatives are there to sell you their fire damage cleanup services.  Often, they can only help with a portion of your claim. For example, one company may be there only to board up your windows.  Another only to tarp your roof.  And another only to take your affected clothing and textiles to clean them.  

You may also be approached by construction companies.  They will try to sell you on the idea of demolishing your property and having them rebuild it from scratch.  Unfortunately, choosing this alternative often ends up with a bill that is higher than if restoration procedures were first implemented.

You Have the Right to Choose Your Disaster Restoration Company

It is your right to either hire any of these companies or ask them to leave your property.  Ultimately, who works on your property is your choice.  By law, no one, including your insurance provider and adjuster, can make this decision on your behalf.

Full Service Fire Damage Restoration Service

You don’t have to piecemeal your fire restoration damage process.  Hiring multiple companies that can handle only portions of your claim results in you managing different points of contacts, a load of documentation, and schedules.  Hiring multiple companies usually ends up in a more expensive insurance claim.

Less stress often results from hiring one company to take care of your fire damage restoration from start to end.  We are one of the businesses in Dallas Fort Worth with the capability and expertise to handle your restoration completely.  When you hire our franchise, you will work with one point of contact who will guide you the entire way. From an insurance perspective, costs are also lowered.  

We have helped many families and businesses rebuild their properties over the last 30 years of our service to DFW.  We can help you, too.

Choosing SERVPRO for Fire Damage in Dallas

While every insurance company is different, you can generally expect the following when you choose us to handle your fire damage insurance claim.

1. Call us for emergency roof tarping and board up.

Our office is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.  We will travel to your property and begin emergency fire damage services.  We will install a weatherproof roof tarping and board up damaged windows, doors, and exterior walls.  These services are important to prevent secondary damage to your property and to deter theft. If the weather prevents our technicians from performing this work, we will send a live security guard to monitor your property.

2. Call your home insurance company.

Tell them you have experienced fire damage on your property, and you have chosen SERVPRO as your fire clean up company.  Advice them that our office will be:

• Installing emergency fire damage services such as board up and roof tarping
• Handling the water damage clean up
• Handling the property clean up
• Handling the contents cleaning including textile and electronic
• Handling reconstruction

By law, your insurance provider and adjuster must honor your choice of fire damage repair company.  Your insurance adjuster may advise you to choose another company, but the choice is ultimately up to you.  You cannot be penalized for choosing a company different than the one they initially suggest.

3. Receive an insurance claim number

When you receive an insurance claim number, call our office and let us know.  Our office will assign an administrative manager that will personally guide through the restoration process from start to end.  They will get in touch with your insurance adjuster and begin the claims process immediately.

4. Fire and smoke damage restoration begins

Our fire damage restoration process has been refined over 30 years of service.  

5. Working with your insurance adjuster

You’ll be assigned an administrative manager from our office.  They will guide you through the fire damage restoration process and the insurance claim from start to end.  They will also communicate with your insurance adjuster on a regular basis, most times every day. We will forward all documentation our technicians have gathered such as photographs and the inventory of your contents.  We will ask for approval for various portions of your claim as we progress through the fire damage restoration process.

6. Insurance documentation

Documentation is a vital part of an insurance claim, especially in a fire damage.  Our technicians will document every step of the fire damage process. We do this to validate your claim for your adjuster and help every portion of it be approved.  Documentation includes photographs, sketches, and inventory of your contents.

A home inventory is essential.  Our technicians will inspect your property to identify everything they can, from clothing to appliances.  We will take pictures of items and record in what room or area they were found.

The items that are salvageable are packed and taken back to our cleaning facility to be restored.  

The items that are not salvageable are reported to your insurance adjuster and disposed of when we receive permission.  Our office also provides a suggested cost replacement estimate for each item that cannot be saved.

Home Inventory

What happens if some contents in the property are so badly burnt that they are no longer identifiable?  This is where your home inventory becomes necessary.  A home inventory is a list of contents, with pictures, that you had in your property before the fire occurred.  When items are burnt, this list will provide proof to your insurance adjuster of what was destroyed in the fire.  Without proof, it is very difficult for an adjuster to agree to replace items.

To prepare a home inventory, please read our article How to Build a Home Inventory.

7. Fire Damage Insurance Payout

We will work with your adjuster to get every portion of your claim approved.  Once your project has been completed, the invoice will be sent directly to your insurance provider.  Most times, your insurance company will send us payment directly to close your claim.

While the majority of an insurance claim will be covered by the insurance company, homeowners are still responsible for their deductible.  A deductible is the part of a claim that a homeowner is directly responsible for and has to pay directly to the restoration vendor.  Our office will work with your insurance agent to determine your deductible. This can be paid to us at any time.

Do you have questions we haven’t talked about in this article?  Contact us and we’ll be glad to answer.

Trusted Leader in Fire Restoration in Dallas, TX

SERVPRO of North Irving is locally owned and operated leader in the restoration industry.  We have the expertise to handle any size smoke and fire damage restoration in Dallas, TX.  We have performed residential and commercial restoration work in Dallas and other North Texas communities for over 30 years.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year. We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.  Call us any time!

We are a family owned and operated business.  Learn more about us.

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Fire Emergency Roof Tarp and Board Up

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Irving responds 24 hours a day to emergency restoration situations. We have been a trusted leader in North Texas since 1986.

When fire damage occurs, the most important thing is to get everyone out of the affected property and call 911.  Fires are devastating and very emotional with good reason. Our home or business property is usually the biggest investment in our life.  Our memories and well being are tied to everything inside of it. Whether your home, apartment, or business has been affected, many people ask themselves how they can possibly get their property and life back.  

It’s important to act quickly after fire damage.  Acting quickly will help prevent secondary damage to your property and help your claim get started.  

Secondary Damage

Secondary damage is damage caused after the primary damage -- in this case, the primary damage would be a fire.  For example, secondary damage after a fire can be water damage from a rainstorm that entered the property from a damaged roof.  Oftentimes, secondary damage can even be theft if the property was left without being boarded up or supervised.

Your insurance provider will want to know you prevented secondary damage from happening to your property.  If it finds that you did not do enough, your claim may be partially denied.

The best way to prevent secondary damage from happening is by hiring a fire damage restoration company to start emergency fire damage services.  

File a Fire Insurance Claim

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible and begin to file your claim.  By law, your insurance company must honor the disaster restoration company of your choice.  Choose a reputable company that is experienced in fire damage restoration and can dispatch a crew immediately to start work.

Emergency fire damage services are a cornerstone of our franchise.  These include:

Board Up

This service includes boarding up damaged doors, windows, and damaged outer walls.  Board up services are important for two reasons:

1 - Prevent the weather from getting into the property.  Any form of precipitation that enters the property can cause secondary water and mold damage.  Our board up services will prevent this from happening.

2 - Deter possible theft.  It’s an unfortunate fact that fire damaged properties are sometimes vandalized, adding insult to injury.  Boarding up your property will tell would-be thieves that the property is being taken care of and monitored.  

Emergency Roof Tarping

When a fire occurs, the roof is often damaged.  To prevent precipitation from entering the property, our crews will install a temporary, heavy duty and weatherproof tarp on the roof.  The tarp will remain in place until a permanent roof is approved by your insurance carrier and can be installed by our reconstruction team.  

24 Hour Live Surveillance

When the weather does not allow our crews to immediately start board up services, we will send a security guard.  Our security will watch over your property and make sure it is not vandalized.

Water Damage Repair

After firefighting efforts, properties can experience water damage on top of the fire damage.  When this water is left standing on the property, it can lead to mold in less than 48 hours. For this reason, our crews will work to extract the water as soon as possible.  

Additional steps our franchise can immediately take are:

Inspection

Once your property has been secured, our team will visit your property and conduct a thorough inspection.  We will begin documenting the extent of the fire damage and prepare an estimate for your insurance adjuster.  Our team of specialists will work with all insurance companies to get your claim approved as quickly as possible.

After your insurance adjuster has approved your claim, other fire damage services can begin.  These include:

Smoke and Soot Cleanup from Clothing

This portion of the fire damage restoration is one of the first to happen.  Our technicians will inventory all clothing and textiles they find on your property.  The salvageable textiles are packed and moved to our cleaning facilities where they will be washed in a specialized machine called the Esporta Wash System.  Our Esporta wash will remove up to 99% of all smoke and soot particles from your textiles.  After they’re washed, they will be safe to wear again.

Our franchise is one of the few businesses in Dallas Fort Worth certified to use the Esporta Wash System.  We have one of the highest success rates in fire and mold damaged clothing and textile restoration, and we are able to process everything in-house.  To learn more about our cleaning process, please read How to Get Rid of Fire Smoke in a House.

Moving Services and Storage

We will inventory everything identifiable on your property.  The contents that we can clean and restore will be packed and moved back to our cleaning facility.  After they have been sanitized, they will be placed in long-term storage until you are able to receive them again.

Contents Cleaning

Soot is acidic, which means that the longer your contents sit without being cleaned, the less chance they will be able to be restored successfully.  We understand smoke and soot, and we will work to quickly clean the contents we find in your house.

Contents are divided into two categories: salvageable and unsalvageable.  

Salvageable contents are those we know we can restore.  These items we pack and move to our cleaning facility for processing and long-term storage.  

Unsalvageable contents are those that have been permanently damaged by the fire.  We inventory these items and prepare a report of them to your adjuster, complete with suggested replacement costs.  These items are then thrown away after we receive your permission.

What about items that were so badly damaged that they cannot be identified?  Please read our article How to Build a Home Inventory of Household Items to understand the importance of a home inventory.

Demolition

When parts of your property are permanently damaged, they have to be taken out of the property and disposed of.  Demolition is always the last resort for our company; our goal is to save as much of your home or business as possible.  Restoration is a faster and less expensive process, which is why many insurance adjusters prefer restoration over construction.  Nevertheless, when restoration is not possible, our crews will demolition what is necessary and prepare it to be rebuilt by our reconstruction team.  

Property Clean Up

We will clean every affected surface of your property to make sure it is safe once again.  This will also include air duct and HVAC cleaning when necessary. Our technicians are trained and qualified to identify the many different types of smoke and soot present.  They will use the appropriate methods and chemicals to clean your property correctly.

Smoke Removal and Deodorization

To help the cleaning efforts, we will also deodorize and remove all airborne smoke particles.  This process is done through one or a combination of HEPA vacuuming, fogging, or the use of an ozone machine.

Reconstruction

Besides fire damage cleanup, our franchise is also uniquely qualified to rebuild any portion of your property that suffered permanent damage.  Our reconstruction team will work with your insurance adjuster to add rebuild services to your claim.

We Are A Full Service Restoration Company

There are many Dallas fire damage restoration companies but not many are full service and can restore your property from beginning to end.  Insurance companies and adjusters prefer to work with us because we can completely handle your restoration. We make the fire damage claims process easy and less expensive than our competitors by taking care of the entire process.  Our franchise is a trusted leader, and we are qualified to:

• Perform emergency roof tarping and board up
• Clean all your contents
• Clean and deodorize your entire property
• Clean your air ducts and HVAC system
• Move out all contents.
• Provide long-term storage
• Clean your clothing and textiles
• Reconstruct your property

When you hire our franchise, SERVPRO of North Irving, you will be guided by our team step by step.

Call SERVPRO of North Irving for Fire Damage in Dallas, TX

SERVPRO of North Irving is locally owned and operated leader in the restoration industry.  We have the expertise to handle any size smoke and fire damage restoration in Dallas, TX.  We have performed residential and commercial restoration work in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Garland, Grapevine, Corsicana, and other North Texas communities for over 30 years.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.  Call us any time!

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We are a family owned and operated business.  Learn more about us. 

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Process for Fire Restoration in Dallas

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Call or contact us anytime for an estimate to restore your Dallas property after fire damage. Fire cleanup estimates are free.

Experiencing fire damage can be an overwhelming and emotional experience.  Even in cases of small fires that are contained quickly, the smoke produced can cause residual damage throughout an entire household.  In more serious and unfortunate cases, most or all of a property and its contents are damaged or destroyed.

Our SERVPRO franchise has restored thousands of properties in the 30+ years we’ve been servicing North Texas.  We are a full-service Dallas fire restoration company ready to handle your restoration’s every need from emergency board ups to reconstruction.

While every fire damage is different, you can generally expect the following when you hire us as your fire damage restoration company:

Emergency Board-Up and Roof Tarping

Did you know that some insurance companies deny at least part of a fire insurance claim if it finds that a property owner did not try to protect their property from secondary damage?  This can be avoided by hiring a contractor to do emergency board up and roof tarping.  

After fire damage, many properties experience damaged roofs, windows, doors, and even damaged outer walls.  This type of damage makes a building susceptible to secondary damage.  Weather can come in and cause water damage and mold.  Easy access also makes it easy for theft to occur.

For these reasons, we recommend emergency fire damage services as soon as the fire department has left.  We can:

• Attach a weatherproof roof tarp.
• Board up damaged doors, windows, and outer walls.
• Send a security guard to protect your property 24 hours a day.

After your property is secure, we can inspect your property and begin fire damage cleanup and remediation services.

Water Damage Restoration in Dallas

Water damage and fire damage usually go hand in hand when larger fires occur.  This is because the fire department is called, and their services require the use of water to put out the fire.  When the fire is put out, properties have experienced the catastrophe of smoke and fire, and they are also flooded.  

In order to prevent secondary damage such as mold, our crews will extract all standing water.

Fire Damage Inspection

If you are filing a homeowner’s insurance claim, your insurance company will want an estimate to put your property back to a preloss state.  To provide them with this information, we will inspect your property and take into account the following:

• The cost to clean salvageable clothing, textiles, and contents.
• The cost to replace permanently damaged clothing and contents.
• The cost to clean and deodorize all affected areas of the home including the air duct and HVAC system.
• The cost to rebuild any portion of the home that was permanently damaged.
• The cost of moving services and long-term storage, if needed.

Your insurance company may also provide you with a temporary living location while the fire cleanup company is working on your property. 

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas

We are located in Dallas, Texas just minutes from downtown.  Call or contact us online anytime to get a fire damage restoration expert headed your way.  

Estimates for Dallas fire damage restoration are free. 

Textile Cleaning: How to Clean Clothes After a House Fire

We are one of the few companies that perform fire damage restoration in Dallas that is also certified to clean and restore smoke and fire damaged clothing.  

As a certified Esporta Wash System operator, our office has the ability to pick up clothing and other items at your property at the time of inspection and transport them back to our cleaning facility for immediate processing.  Cleaning smoke and soot affected textiles quickly increase the probability of them being able to be fully deodorized and sanitized.

Demolition

When fire damage permanently damages a portion of a property, our team will demolish the areas that cannot be cleaned and restored.  Insurance companies know and understand this too well.  

If you have a fire in Dallas today, you have many disaster cleanup companies to choose from, and your insurance company or adjuster may advise you to choose a full-service fire, water damage restoration company.  The reason for this is because full-service fire clean up companies typically result in:

• Faster service
• Better quality
• Lower claims cost
• Less stress and higher customer satisfaction

The demolition process is an essential first step to the cleanup process.  If this is needed on your property, we will work with your insurance company to also get the repairs and reconstruction approved.  

As a full-service residential and commercial fire damage restoration company, we know how to navigate the insurance claims process, and we’ll help you get back to normal. 

Moving and Storage Services

To salvage contents inside a property, we will pack all salvageable items and transport them to our cleaning facilities.  Before moving any contents, our technicians will inventory all items that are identifiable.

At our facility, all items are restored and then packaged for long-term storage.  Items are returned at either a temporary residence or once the property has been rebuilt.  

Items that are not able to be restored are documented and inventoried for your insurance adjuster.  Our office will provide a replacement cost estimate for each item for your insurance adjuster’s consideration.  

In the case of a devastating fire, many items are burnt beyond recognition.  We will do our best to identify all items, but this is not always possible. In this case, our technicians will not be able to provide documentation for your insurance adjuster for replacement.  We understand the frustration and, at times, heartbreak this can cause.

We recommend having a digital home inventory to make sure your insurance adjuster knows what items were in your property and cannot be recuperated.  This is the only way to provide proof of your belongings in the case of a devastating fire. If a homeowner cannot provide proof of an item existing in their home, it will usually not be replaced by insurance.  

House Fire Clean Up

After demolition, our technicians will begin cleaning the entire structure.  The structure includes anything in the property that is physically attached, such as walls, floors, and cabinets.  There are different types of smoke and soot that all need unique cleaning techniques. Our team of technicians is trained to use the appropriate SERVPRO proprietary chemicals to clean all types of smoke and soot that are present.  

The first step to structural cleaning is to check the air ducts and HVAC system.  If soot has settled in the air ducts, it's important to remove it all before turning the air back on.  After the air duct system has been cleaned, then the rest of the property’s structure can be cleaned.

Removing all smoke particles is essential to deodorization.

Smoke Odor Deodorization

The most important part of deodorization is to clean the entire structure and all contents inside.  When odor-causing particles continue to linger, our team will place a series of HEPA vacuums on the property.  When necessary, we may also fog the property or temporarily install an ozone machine.

Cleaning Items

The contents in your home are everything we can physically take such as clothing, textiles, appliances, electronics, furniture, toys, beds, etcetera.

Clothing and textiles are cleaned using the Esporta Wash System.  All other contents are cleaned according to the type of smoke and soot they have been affected by.  

Just like textiles, time is of the essence when cleaning contents.  Since soot is acidic, the longer an item sits in it, the less of a chance it has of being cleaned and restored.  This is why our technicians will move contents of a property as quickly as possible.

Reconstruction or Rebuild

After your property has been cleaned and deodorized, our reconstruction team gets to work.  They will determine what is needed to restore your property back to preloss condition.  Then, they work with your insurance adjuster to get this portion of your fire damage claim approved.  

Our office is able to restore any part of a home or business, no matter the size.

Fire Insurance Claim Process

We’ll do the majority of the heavy lifting to make sure your Dallas fire damage insurance claim is processed.  When you experience fire damage, give your insurance company a call and receive a claim number. Tell them you have chosen SERVPRO of North Irving as your fire damage restoration company.  

By law, your insurance company must honor your choice of disaster restoration company, regardless of what they or an adjuster suggest.

Then, give us your claim number and our office will contact your insurance provider to begin the claims process.  Throughout the project, the documentation our technicians obtain will be forwarded to your adjuster. By the end, our invoice will be sent to your adjuster, and we will work with them to collect payment.  

Our office works with all insurance companies. 

Restoration After Fire Damage in Dallas, TX

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas.  Our franchise is a 30+ year leader in the restoration industry.  We have the expertise to handle any size fire and smoke damage restoration in Dallas, Texas.  

Our fire restoration technicians are available to dispatch for 24-hour emergencies every day of the year.  Call us at (972) 986-7677 or contact us online anytime.  

We’re here to help. 

Dallas Fire Damage Restoration Terms

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

We offer free estimates for fire damage restoration in Dallas. Call or contact us anytime. We're here to help.

When a property experiences a fire, you may begin to hear a lot of fire damage restoration terms you are unfamiliar with.  Familiarizing yourself with this vocabulary will help your understanding of what is happening.

Rest assured that if you should ever need our help, our team of fire damage experts will walk you through the process of cleanup and restoration.

Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage restoration is a general disaster cleanup term that says a fire occurred on a property, and the property now needs to be restored. 

If you have a fire today, there are many fire cleanup companies in Dallas to choose from.  It's up to you to decide which company or companies to use.  Many insurance companies and adjusters now prefer a full-service damage restoration company because they often result in less stress, faster service, better quality, and decreased claims costs.  

Contact A Fire Restoration Company in Dallas

If you need fire damage restoration guidance, call or contact us.  We are a full-service fire damage restoration in Dallas with more than 30 years of experience.  Estimates are free. 

Structural Stability / Stabilizing the Structure

"Stabilizing the structure" or "structural stability" refers to the need to make a structure safe enough for fire damage technicians to begin fire clean up and restoration work.  

Before we can begin, the fire must be completely put out.  If the Dallas fire department was called, our teams must also wait for their approval to approach the property. 

Once we have permission to begin restoration services, our first step is to start with emergency fire damage services, like roof tarping and board-up. 

Emergency Roof Tarp

A roof tarp is a thick, weatherproof piece of plastic that is attached to the roof.  It prevents weather from entering the building and causing secondary damage.  You may have seen roof tarps before--they are usually bright blue, but they can also be other colors. 

At SERVPRO, roof tarping is considered an emergency service.  If we can safely perform the installation of a roof tarp, we will dispatch 24-hours a day. 

Board Up

A board-up is when pieces of board are installed over damaged windows and doors.  Board-ups help prevent weather from entering your property, and they also signal to possible intruders that the property is being cared for and watched.

Temporary Fencing

Temporary fencing is when we install a temporary fence around the perimeter of your property.  If an entire fence isn’t needed, we’ll only install it around highly damaged areas.  A temporary fence helps prevent possible theft and keeps the general public away from sensitive areas.

24-Hour Security Guard

When a structure cannot be immediately stabilized (for example, it’s raining and it’s not safe to tarp the roof), a 24-hour security guard will be hired to protect the property.

Secondary Damage

Secondary damage is damage that did not come from the original source.  For example, in fire damage, the fire is the primary damage.  If the property owner did not install a roof tarp and a storm passed by, then the water damage inside the property would be considered secondary damage.

Some secondary damage may not be covered an insurance claim if the insurance company determines it was caused by negligence. 

Pre Loss Condition

Pre loss condition is a common insurance term that refers to the condition a property was before a loss occurred.

It's the goal of damage restoration companies to put your property back to preloss condition through cleaning and restoration techniques. 

Smoke Damage Restoration

Smoke damage restoration is when we remove smoke particles that have embedded themselves in a material, like a wall, clothing, or piece of furniture.  Smoke damage cannot usually be seen, but it can be smelled. 

Smoke damage cleanup involves smoke odor removal, deodorization, and debris removal. 

Soot Damage

Soot damage is when soot has embedded itself into a material.  Soot is produced by the incomplete burning during the fire.  It is acidic and causes damage to materials when it’s not properly or promptly cleaned.  

Only some fire damage restoration companies have the technology and training to clean soot-covered clothing and textiles.  If your Dallas fire damage restoration company offers this service, ask them if they will clean your items themselves or if they will use a subcontractor.  

Many times, restoration companies send your items to a subcontractor and raise the price of your fire damage restoration.  Worst, they may choose to send your items to a dry cleaner that cannot clean soot-covered clothing properly.  

Our SERVPRO franchise is a full-service restoration company.  When we offer to clean your soot affected items, we will clean them ourselves.  We are also one of the few certified Esporta Wash System businesses in North Texas.  This machine is the latest and best technology that exists to sanitize clothes back to food-grade safe, even after fire damage.  Our technicians have been specially trained to clean smoke and soot out of clothing.

Demolition

Demolition means a built-in material is removed from a property.  This happens when the material has experienced permanent damage and cannot be cleaned.  This is often true for badly burnt walls and flooring. 

When demolition is needed, we work with your insurance adjuster to get repairs approved.  After approval, our reconstruction team replaces what was thrown away. 

Containment

Containment is when thick plastic is installed in order to isolate the air space of a room.  This is done so that odor removal techniques can be more effective or to prevent an unaffected area of a property from becoming contaminated by smoke particles and debris.

Air Scrubber

An air scrubber is a machine that cleans the air.  They are used in conjunction with HEPA filters to remove the smoke and other odor particles from the air. 

HEPA Filter

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance.  This is a type of air filter that can catch particles as small as 0.3 microns.  This is our filter of choice when using an air scrubber, and it helps us remove smoke odor from a home. 

Odor Removal or Deodorization

Odor removal or deodorization is when an item or property is rid of smells caused by the fire damage.  We use various techniques to achieve this, such as ULV fogging, ozone, hydroxyl, and a variety of detergents. 

Structural Framing

Structural framing refers to the structure of the property, like beams.  If the structure has been damaged, demolition must happen.  If demolition is necessary, our reconstruction team will replace it.

Contents or Household Items

Contents or household items are things that are not part of the structure, like furniture, appliances, and toys.  When affected, contents can either be cleaned on your property itself.  The most common scenario is for your belongings to be packed and taken to a professional cleaning facility.

Textiles

If you turned the property upside down and everything fell out, the items that fell and did not break are textiles.  These include clothing, shoes, plush animals, etcetera.  When affected, textiles are taken back to our facility for cleaning.

We are one of the few certified Esporta Wash System businesses in North Texas.  Our technicians have been specially trained to clean smoke and soot out of clothing.

Moving Services or Pack Out and Pack Back

When a property isn’t safe to live in, contents and textiles are moved out and taken to our facilities for cleaning and storage.  They are returned when the property is clean, reconstructed, and safe for inhabitants.  

Items may also be delivered to a second location if the owner has found a temporary home and would like them returned sooner.

Storage

Items that have been packed-out are stored in our facilities until they can be returned.  Storage is usually approved as part of a fire damage restoration insurance claim. 

HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning in Dallas

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Condition system.  Air ducts are the pathways for the cold or warm air to travel around the property.  Many times, the HVAC system needs to be cleaned after fire damage because the smoke has accumulated inside of it.  

The last thing we want to happen is to have the entire property cleaned only to turn on the HVAC and have smoke particles blow out of the ducts and contaminate everything again.

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile helps provide a plan of action for a property before any disaster happens.  It provides us your property’s information, like room sizes and types of flooring.  This way, our response is faster, should anything ever happen.

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profiles are free to create.  Call or contact us today to schedule one of our fire damage restoration experts to visit your property and complete one for you. 

Insurance Claim

When you report your fire damage to your insurance company, your agent or insurance adjuster will file an insurance claim and provide you with a claim number.  

We will assign a Project Coordinator from our office especially to you, so they can help you from start to end.  Your Project Coordinator will ask for your claim information to establish a relationship with your adjuster and start the insurance process. 

Insurance Deductible

An insurance deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out of pocket for your insurance claim to be processed.  Ask your insurance company for your deductible amount.  Since we are not allowed to look at your insurance policy, we cannot tell you what your deductible is ourselves. 

We’re a SERVPRO in Dallas

We are a full-service water and fire and smoke damage restoration company in Dallas, Texas.  Our franchise specializes in residential and commercial fire damage restoration.  We have serviced our hometown of DFW for over 30-years, and we are ready to help you, too. 

Our fire restoration technicians are available to dispatch for 24-hour emergencies every day of the year. 

We can be reached 24-hours a day at (972) 986-7677.  

Call or contact us anytime.

What to Do If You Have A Fire in Dallas Today

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dallas has a 24 hour emergency line. Our technicians are dispatched 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

What to Do If You Have A Fire in Dallas Today

A fire can be devastating. While a homeowner is dealing with the shock of their home and items being damaged, there are also many more strong emotions and important questions in mind. Where will we live now? Do I have to start over again?

It’s easy to be overwhelmed when a fire damage happens, regardless of its size.  We’ve worked to restore many homes and businesses, and we can help you, too. Our priority is to help you navigate this difficult time and get your home back together as quickly as possible.  There’s no time to waste.

After the fire department’s job ends, our work begins.

Fire Cleanup Companies in Dallas: How to Choose

There are many fire cleanup companies in Dallas, but few of them are full service. We have been handling Dallas fire damage restoration for over 30 years, and we have grown our business to respond to the needs and wants of our customers.  

Their voice is clear: they want a fire damage restoration company that can help them with every aspect of their restoration.  They want one phone call to fix it all.

Fire Cleanup Service

24 Hour Emergency Response

We have a 24 hour emergency line to respond to any disaster. Our technicians are dispatched 24 hours a day, every day of the year. If we cannot perform emergency fire damage repair services due to poor lighting, we will call for 24 hour live security to make sure your home is safe until we can begin work in the morning.

Emergency Roof Tarp

A thick, weatherproof roof tarp will be attached to the roof of your property to prevent weather from entering and causing secondary damage.

Board Up

We board up damaged windows and doors to prevent precipitation and unauthorized persons from entering the building.  This also signals to possible intruders that the property is being cared for and watched.

Temporary Fencing

We install a temporary fence around the perimeter of the property.  If an entire fence isn’t needed, we’ll only install it around highly damaged areas.  A temporary fence helps prevent possible theft and keeps the general public away from sensitive areas.

Security Guard

When a structure cannot be immediately stabilized (for example, it’s raining and it’s not safe to tarp the roof), a 24 hour security guard will be hired to protect the property.

Structural Stability / Stabilizing the Structure

This refers to the need to make a structure safe enough for our technicians to begin fire clean up and restoration work.  The fire must be completely put out and we must have authorization from the homeowner to begin work. If the fire department was called, our teams must also wait for their approval to approach the property.  

Water Damage Restoration

Fire and water damage often go hand in hand. A water damage occurs at most fires due to firefighting efforts. Standing water can cause secondary damage to your structure. We will perform water removal services and other water damage restoration services as soon as the structural integrity of your home is established.

Structural Cleaning

After the building is secure, we will begin the process of cleaning the smoke fire out of your property.  Debris will be removed.

Smoke Damage Restoration

Smoke damage restoration is when we remove smoke particles have embedded themselves in a material, like a wall, clothing, or piece of furniture. Smoke damage cannot usually be seen, but it can be smelled. Smoke damage cleanup and odor removal should take place.

Contents Cleaning

Contents are things that are not part of the structure, like furniture, appliances, and toys.  When affected, contents can either be cleaned on site or taken back to our cleaning facility.

Moving Services / Pack Out and Pack Back

When the structure isn’t safe, contents and textiles are moved out of the property and taken to our facilities for cleaning and storage. They are returned when the property is clean, reconstructed, and safe for inhabitants. Items may also be delivered to a second location if the owner would like them returned sooner.

Storage

Items that have been packed-out are stored in our facilities until they can be returned.

Reconstruction

Reconstruction refers to any portion of your structure that is rebuilt. Any portion that was permanently damaged during the fire damage is rebuilt to pre fire condition.

House Fire and Insurance Claims

Each one of our customers is assigned a Project File Coordinator. This person will contact your insurance company and communicate with your insurance adjuster on a daily basis. If your fire damage insurance claim is not covered, we will quickly find out and let you know what next steps you can take. If your insurance claim is approved, we will work closely with your insurance company to process your claim.

Moving Services to Temporary Housing in Dallas

During the fire damage restoration process, many families are temporarily housed in an apartment or hotel.  Some may choose to live with a parent or family member. While you are in temporary housing, it’s important to continue normal life functions as much as possible, like going to work and school.  

This is why we ask you for any important items you, your children, or pets may need.  Examples can include a week’s worth of clothing or a favorite blanket.

We will prioritize the cleaning and sanitization of these items and get them back to you quickly, usually in less than 3 days.

We understand the interruption and stress this may cause you, so we’ll do all we can to make sure you have the items you need to feel as normal as possible.  As we do this, the rest of our technicians and managers will work on all others aspects of your fire damage restoration.

Trusted Leader in Fire Damage Restoration, Dallas Texas

SERVPRO of North Irving is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company in Dallas, Texas. We have performed work in Dallas and other North Texas communities for over 30 years.  With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster. We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections. You can trust us to restore your home or business.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year. We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677. Call us any time!

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Dallas Apartment Fire

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Irving handles fire damages in Dallas. We are a trusted fire damage restoration company with over 30 years of experience.

What Should Renters Do After A Dallas Apartment Fire?

Fire damages can be devastating.  Even when your home isn’t completely affected, fire damage victims still have to handle significant losses.  When you’re a renter at an apartment complex, many questions may enter your mind:

• Is the apartment complex responsible for fire damage costs or am I?
• Does my insurance cover my fire damage?
• Where will I go?
• How will I get all my stuff back?
• How long will it take to get my apartment back?

Handling a fire damage can easily become overwhelming.

We’ve helped many renters that have experienced a fire in their apartment in all of Dallas.  Our team knows how to work with apartment complexes, landlords, and insurance providers to help restore your life.  We can help you, too.

Apartment Fires and Insurance Claims

When you call us to handle your fire damage restoration, you will be assigned a Project Fire Coordinator from our office.  Their responsibility is to establish a relationship with your insurance adjuster. They will communicate with them day to day about the status of your claim.  We’ll work with them to:

• Establish your fire damage restoration coverage.
• Ask for approval to clean and restore any contents that could be saved from the fire.
• Ask for approval to clean your smoke and fire damaged clothing.
• Ask for approval to store your contents as your apartment is being cleaned and restored.
• Process and close your fire damage claim.

Content Cleaning (Household Items)

Content is what we call everything that is inside your apartment.  They are all the belongings you and your family have inside.

The first step when content cleaning is to identify all the items inside your apartment.  We separate them into two categories:

• Salvageable.  These are items that can be cleaned, deodorized, and sanitized.  They are inventories and moved to our cleaning facility. Once they’re cleaned, we store them until you’re ready to receive them again.
• Unsalvageable.  These are items that are permanently damaged and cannot be cleaned.  We do our best to identify these items and report them to your insurance company so they can determine the replacement cost.  Sometimes, the contents are so badly burnt that we cannot identify them. After we have identified everything we and send the inventory to your insurance company, we ask for your permission to dispose of them.

Smoke and Fire Damaged Clothing

Many fire damage restoration companies will offer to take your clothing and clean them after smoke and soot have affected them.  If they offer this service, make sure they can perform the work in house, which means they have their own machines and trained technicians to do the job.  If they can’t, these fire damage restoration companies will usually hire another company to complete this specialized work, which makes the process more expensive.  

SERVPRO will not hire anyone else to clean your clothing.  We are one of the few Esporta Wash System certified firms in Dallas.  Our Esporta trained technicians will take all your clothing and textiles from your apartment and take them back to our cleaning facility for sanitation and smoke removal.  When your clothes are cleaned, we will return them to you at your convenience. Our technicians have one of the highest rates of textile cleaning success at over 85% -- even better than traditional dry cleaners.

Moving Services & Storage

Our technicians will pack out everything in our apartment so it can be cleaned.  They will take them back to our cleaning facility where your items will be deodorized and sanitized.  When you can receive your items back again, we’ll be ready to deliver them to you.

Rush Item Cleaning and Delivery

We understand that while the fire damage restoration is taking place, you will need to resume normal activities like going to work and school.  For this reason, we offer a rush item service, where our customers can request items they need, such as clothing, cleaned and delivered to them as soon as possible.  We prioritize these items for cleaning and delivery them quickly, usually around 3 days.

Other Fire Cleanup Companies

We are trained and able to handle every part of your claim.  From fire clean up, to smoke removal, to contents and textile cleaning, to moving services, storage, and reconstruction, we’ll be there.  Not many other fire cleanup companies are able to do the same.

We are a full service fire cleanup company.  With us, you won’t have to worry about coordinating handfuls of different people and companies to handle your claim.  We know this will be a stressful time, so our promise to you is to simplify the process by assigning you a 3 Expert Team.  Each of these team members will take care of all aspects of your project from beginning to end. Rest assured that if you ever have a question, they’ll have the answer.

• Project File Coordinator:  they will work with your insurance company to process your claim.
• Restoration Manager:  they will do the majority of the fire damage restoration process.  They will clean all your contents, your apartment, and manage your move and storage.
• Reconstruction Manager:  if they are needed, they will rebuild any damages to your apartment.

Trusted Leader in Fire Damage Restoration in Dallas Texas

SERVPRO of North Irving is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company in Dallas Texas.  We have performed work in the Dallas community for over 30 years.  With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster. We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year. We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 986-7677.  Call us any time!

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.