When the fire trucks leave your property and the smoke finally clears, the reality of fire damage sets in. Whether you’re in Dover, Rochester, Durham, or anywhere else in New Hampshire, knowing the right steps to take immediately after a house fire can make all the difference in your recovery.
At PuroClean of Strafford County, we understand that experiencing a house fire is one of the most stressful events a homeowner can face. Our team is dedicated to helping local families navigate the restoration process with expertise, compassion, and efficient service that gets you back home as quickly as possible. Often, the hardest part for residents after a home fire is knowing where to begin and who to contact.
The Critical First Hours After a Fire
The moments and days following a house fire are crucial. Beyond the visible fire damage, your home likely faces smoke damage, water damage from firefighting efforts, and potential structural issues. This is not the time for DIY repairs—professional fire restoration services are essential to prevent further damage and ensure your family’s safety.
5 Essential Steps to Take After a House Fire
1. Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately
Don’t wait to report the fire. Reach out to your insurance agent by phone, email, or in person as soon as possible to start your claim. You’ll need to provide:
- Date and time of the fire
- Location and address
- Known or suspected cause
- Extent of damage to your home and belongings
- Any relevant details from the fire report
Pro tip: Request a copy of the fire report from your local fire department (Dover Fire Department, Rochester Fire & Rescue, etc.). Be aware that in some cases, the report may not be immediately available depending on the investigation status or New Hampshire state regulations.
We provide complete coverage throughout southern NH the seacoast to parts of Maine
Click for more on local Fire Damage Recovery in: Rochester, Dover, Somersworth,
2. Document Everything with Photos and Video
In the chaos after a fire, it’s easy to forget this crucial step. As soon as the fire department clears your property as safe to enter, document all damage thoroughly:
- Take photos and videos from multiple angles
- Capture both overview shots and close-ups of damaged items
- Document every room, including areas with smoke damage
- Photograph the exterior of your home
This documentation is invaluable for your insurance claim and can help ensure you receive fair compensation.
3. Complete Your Insurance Claim Carefully
When filling out insurance forms:
- Provide complete, accurate information
- Don’t sign anything until you’ve reviewed it thoroughly
- Keep copies of all documentation
- Save receipts for temporary housing, food, clothing, and other immediate expenses
- Attach contractor estimates and proof of payment as required
- Submit all required documentation promptly to avoid delays
4. Review Estimates Before Accepting
You’re not obligated to accept the first estimate from your insurance adjuster. Most homeowners’ policies require your approval before any payment is issued. If an estimate seems insufficient to cover your losses, speak up. PuroClean of Strafford County can work directly with your insurance company to ensure all damage is properly assessed.
5. Arrange Temporary Housing
You’ll likely need somewhere to stay during restoration. Ask your insurance agent about:
- Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage
- Direct billing arrangements with local hotels
- Reimbursement timelines and limits
- What expenses are covered (lodging, meals, pet boarding, etc.)
New Hampshire Resources:
- American Red Cross of Northern New England: (603) 863-1350
- NH Disaster Behavioral Health Response Team
- Local community emergency response services in Strafford County
In certain catastrophic situations, you may qualify for federal assistance through FEMA or state aid programs specific to New Hampshire residents.
5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid After a Fire
1. Don’t Re-Enter an Unsafe Home
Your home may look intact, but hidden dangers lurk after a fire:
- Live electrical wiring
- Compromised structural integrity
- Weakened floors and ceilings at risk of collapse
- Toxic smoke residue and potential asbestos (common in older New Hampshire homes)
- Carbon monoxide and other hazardous gases
Wait for official clearance from the fire department and your insurance company before entering. Your belongings aren’t worth risking your life—even for treasured possessions or pets that may have been left behind.
2. Don’t Discard Anything Yet
It’s tempting to start cleaning up immediately, but resist the urge to throw things away:
- Many items can be professionally restored, even if they look ruined
- Your insurance adjuster needs to see damaged items to process your claim
- Discarding items prematurely can result in claim denials or reduced payouts
- Professional restoration can salvage furniture, clothing, electronics, and sentimental items you might think are lost
PuroClean of Strafford County specializes in content restoration and can help determine what’s salvageable. We use advanced cleaning techniques that can save items you’d never expect to recover.
3. Don’t Start Repairs Without Authorization
No matter how extensive the damage appears, wait for written approval from your insurance company before:
- Hiring contractors for repairs
- Replacing damaged items
- Making structural fixes
- Removing damaged materials
Starting repairs prematurely can result in:
- Having to pay for work twice
- Insurance claim denials
- Disputes over damage extent
- Out-of-pocket expenses that won’t be reimbursed
4. Don’t Cancel Your Utilities
Even if your home is uninhabitable, keep utilities active if possible:
- Electricity may be needed for restoration equipment
- Heat prevents additional damage during New Hampshire winters
- Running water is essential for cleaning operations
- Active utilities prevent frozen pipes and secondary damage
Ensure all bills are current. If natural gas service was shut off, don’t attempt to restore it yourself—contact a licensed professional.
Important: Close all drains with plumber’s tape or drain plugs to prevent sewer gas contamination while the property sits vacant.
5. Don’t Lose Hope
Fire damage is devastating, but recovery is possible. New Hampshire families are resilient, and with professional help, your home can be restored. Many homeowners are amazed at how much can be salvaged with the right expertise and equipment.
Why Choose PuroClean of Strafford County?
When disaster strikes your New Hampshire home, you need a restoration partner who understands local challenges:
- 24/7 Emergency Response: We’re available around the clock, every day of the year
- Local Expertise: We understand New Hampshire building codes, climate challenges, and insurance requirements
- Comprehensive Services: Fire damage, smoke damage, water damage, and mold remediation
- Insurance Coordination: We work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process
- Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art restoration equipment and proven techniques
- Compassionate Service: We treat your home and belongings with the care they deserve
Serving Dover, Rochester, Durham, Barrington, Somersworth, Farmington, and all of Strafford County, we’re your neighbors—and we’re here to help you rebuild.
Take Action Now
After the fire department secures your property, your next call should be to PuroClean of Strafford County. The sooner restoration begins, the more we can save and the faster you can return home.
Contact PuroClean of Strafford County:
- Phone: (603) 664-3727
- Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Service Area: All of southern New Hampshire and surrounding seacoast communities
Don’t face fire damage alone. Let our experienced team guide you through every step of the restoration process, from emergency response to final repairs. We’ll work tirelessly to return your property to pre-loss condition—and help you move forward with confidence.
Remember: Time is critical after a fire. Every hour counts when it comes to preventing secondary damage and beginning the restoration process. Call us now.
House Fire Prevention Starts with You
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following:
- Install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
- Components of the alarms will deteriorate over time and can only be expected to work effectively within 10 years of their date of manufacture. Replace smoke alarms that are older than 10 years.
- Interconnected alarms are best. Wireless is an acceptable option.
- Hard-wired smoke alarms should have battery back-up in case there is a power outage.
- Battery powered smoke alarms should be changed twice a year. A 10-year sealed battery is preferred.
- Test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are functioning properly.
Frequently Asked Questions About House Fires in New Hampshire
How long does fire damage restoration typically take?
The timeline varies depending on the extent of damage, but most residential fire restoration projects take between 2-6 weeks. Minor smoke damage might be resolved in a few days, while extensive structural fire damage can take several months. PuroClean of Strafford County will provide a detailed timeline after our initial assessment and work efficiently to get you back home as soon as safely possible.
Will my insurance cover fire damage restoration?
Most homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage, including restoration costs, temporary housing, and content cleaning. However, coverage varies by policy. We recommend reviewing your policy details with your insurance agent. PuroClean of Strafford County works directly with insurance companies throughout Strafford County and can help navigate the claims process to ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.
Is it safe to clean up smoke damage myself?
No. Smoke residue contains toxic chemicals and particles that require professional cleaning methods and protective equipment. Improper cleaning can actually drive smoke particles deeper into surfaces, making damage worse. Additionally, disturbing ash and soot without proper protection can pose serious health risks. Always rely on certified fire restoration professionals like PuroClean of Strafford County for safe, thorough smoke damage cleanup.
What’s the difference between fire damage and smoke damage?
Fire damage refers to destruction caused by flames—burned materials, charred surfaces, and structural damage from heat. Smoke damage occurs when smoke particles, soot, and odors penetrate surfaces throughout your home, often affecting rooms far from the actual fire. Smoke damage can be just as serious as fire damage and requires specialized cleaning techniques to fully remediate. Both require professional restoration services.
Can PuroClean of Strafford County help with the insurance claim process?
Absolutely. We work directly with your insurance company to document damage, provide detailed estimates, and ensure all necessary information is submitted for your claim. Our team has extensive experience with insurance procedures and can advocate on your behalf to help ensure fair compensation. We’ll photograph damage, create comprehensive inventories, and communicate with adjusters throughout the restoration process—taking stress off your shoulders during an already difficult time.
