Fire Recovery Checklist for New Hampshire Residents

From the team at PuroClean of Strafford County

When a fire damages your home or building, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. At PuroClean of Strafford County, we specialize in fire damage restoration and help property owners in Rockingham, Strafford, Merrimack, Belknap, and Hillsborough counties recover quickly from fire, smoke, and soot damage. Whether you’re a property owner, landlord, or tenant, here are critical steps to take during the recovery process:

1. PRIORITIZE SAFETY

• Do not enter the property until cleared by the fire department.
• Be cautious of structural damage, debris, and contaminated air.
• Wear protective gear if entry is permitted.

2. NOTIFY THE RIGHT PEOPLE

• Tenants: Contact your landlord or property manager immediately.
• Landlords/Owners: Notify your insurance provider and coordinate with a professional restoration company.
• Everyone: If you have renters or homeowners insurance, file a claim right away.

3. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING

• Take photos and videos of damage before any cleanup.
• Create an itemized list of damaged or lost belongings (include brands, receipts if possible).
• Keep a copy of the fire report, insurance claim, and receipts from temporary housing or cleanup.

4. SECURE THE PROPERTY

• Board up broken windows or doors if the structure is exposed.
• Shut off utilities (electric, gas, water) until the property is safe.
• Ask your restoration team about emergency mitigation services.

5. DON’T THROW IT ALL AWAY

• Many belongings affected by smoke or soot can be restored — including electronics, furniture, and sentimental items.
• PuroClean offers pack-out services and content cleaning to help recover your valuables.
• Avoid DIY cleanup; improper handling of soot can cause permanent damage or health risks.

6. RENTERS: PROTECT YOURSELF WITH INSURANCE

• Fires happen fast — and recovery is costly. Renters insurance is often less than $20/month and can cover:
  • Damaged or destroyed belongings
  • Temporary housing
  • Personal liability
• Landlords typically only insure the building, not your personal items.

7. WORK WITH LICENSED RESTORATION PROS

PuroClean serves all of Strafford County, Rockingham County, and Southern NH/Maine.

PuroClean of Strafford County is trained in:

• Smoke and soot removal
• Odor control
• Water damage from firefighting efforts
• Structural drying and cleaning
• Content cleaning and restoration

Conclusion

Fire can cause significant damage to homes and properties, even in small amounts. 

That’s where a professional  damage restoration company comes in.  If you find your property involved in a water emergency situation, give us a call as we are trained in properly handling all categories and stages of the water remediation process. PuroClean of Strafford County is here day or night to help remove any standing water quickly and monitor the drying process so you can rest assured that your property is dried thoroughly.

Property owners and managers can rely on professional expertise and round-the-clock service to address water damage promptly. With certified technicians and specialized equipment, they are equipped to handle various water damage scenarios. Contact our team of professionals by calling 603-664-3727 ensures timely intervention and a smoother restoration process.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Fire Damage Restoration Professional

When calling fire damage restoration pros for quotes on home repairs, ask these key questions:

• Do you guarantee your work? Only move forward if the company is willing to do so.
• Are you fully licensed and certified? The best restoration companies hold certifications from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certifications (IICRC).
• How long have you been in business? Look for pros with at least a decade of experience safely entering buildings after fires.
• Do you handle insurance claims? A restoration company that works directly with insurance saves you time and hassle.
• Do you provide turnkey services? Having one company handle every aspect of restoration makes the whole process simpler.
• Are you available immediately? Getting repairs done quickly keeps costs as low as possible and stops damage from spreading.
• Can you provide references or reviews? Ask for customer testimonials or where to find reviews online.

Questions about fire damage restoration in Southern NH and Southern ME

Below are the questions typically asked by our PuroClean customers:
What do I do if I have a fire late at night and need assistance?
PuroClean of Strafford County is open 24/7, and will respond to your call for fire damage restoration any time, on any day. We have your best interests at heart, and restoring your property correctly, the first time, is our top priority. Call us now at (603)664-3727!
What do I need to do to get a free fire damage repair estimate or how much does it cost?
Call us now at (603)664-3727 for your free estimate of our fire damage restoration services in Southern NH and Southern ME.
Does my insurance cover a home fire?
It depends on your policy. If it is covered, the insurance company will cover all invoices up to the limit on your policy, and you are responsible for the amount of the deductible. Contact your broker to find out if this loss is covered.