WHAT TO DO AFTER A COMMERCIAL FIRE

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County / Greenville technicians cleaning of a Commercial Fire.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A COMMERCIAL FIRE

What Should You Do After a Fire at Your Business?

After the flames are extinguished, the smoke has dispersed, and the fire personnel have left, the realization of what has happened begins to set.  It’s an overwhelming feeling of despair and uneasiness of the next steps to start the recovery process.  Your first thought may be how do I save my business?  Just because the building is damaged does not mean your business is lost too.  To reduce the cost of lost business due to a drop in productivity and revenue, have a fire survival plan in place in advance.

The Key to Your Business Surviving a Fire is a Well Thought Out Plan

The key to saving your business after a fire begins with a preemptive fire survival plan.  Every survival plan is unique to every business. However, the necessary foundation of the plan will be similar with most being off-site contingencies.

• Maintain an up to date contact list – phone numbers and emails
• Make a video or photographic record of your business – the video or photos are for reimbursement in the event of loss
• Backup necessary computer files on a weekly basis
• Maintain an accurate inventory list
• Maintain a secure backup of accounting records.
• Have a pre-standing agreement and contact information with SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville

What to Do When a Commercial Fire Occurs

After the fire, do not touch anything!  If you have a business fire survival plan, put it into action.  If you do not, it's ok, contact SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville first! (972)548-6044

Buildings, after a fire, should never be entered without the consent of firefighters.  The hidden and unsafe conditions could contain a health hazard.  Smoke and soot are known for their health-harming capabilities. Disturbing anything on the property could void or lessen your insurance coverage reimbursement.  Never underestimate the seriousness of a commercial fire.  Don’t take a chance, call SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville for professional help.  (972)548-6044

Steps to take after a commercial fire:

• Turn all utilities off.
• Turn off water at the valve, and gas and electricity at the meter.
• Immediately contact your insurance company. If you rent or lease space, contact the property owner’s insurance agent as well.
• Once the “all-clear” is given, remove necessary items - Business licenses and permits, inventory and accounting records, employee documents, insurance information, cash, credit cards, and checkbooks, and other valuables. NOTE: Make sure fire safes are cool before opening!
• Notify local law enforcement – to prevent vandalism, theft, and liability issues.
• Notify employees, customers, suppliers, and vendors – as necessary, including the post office, utility providers, and credit card companies.
• Call SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville (972)548-6044

Calling SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville quickly can allow for us to begin the mitigation process, including board up, tarping, and other services as needed.  Mitigation is required by your insurance provider to reduce the chance of further damage.  Mitigation will also protect your business from intruder and weather-related damage. Once the mitigation is complete, we can begin the assessment and estimation process for your insurance company.

Remember to keep extensive records throughout the process.  Collect and maintain receipts for expenses and note every phone call and related discussions.

Fires happen in an instant, but repairs and restoration is a slow process.  Let SERVPRO of Northeast Collin County/Greenville help you and your company get on your feet after a devastating fire. 

Call today!  (972)548-6044

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