Tag Archive for: Atlanta Roofing Companies

Lightning Strikes on Commercial Roofs – Risks, Damage, and Prevention

Avoid revenue loss, severe structural damage, and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your commercial building. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your building and business.

Lightning damage commercial roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about how lightning strikes wreak havoc on electrical systems, appliances, and structural elements and what you can do to mitigate them.

What Attracts Lightning to Commercial Buildings?

Lightning naturally seeks the shortest and easiest path to the ground. It is attracted to:

Tall Structures – Taller buildings and structures become prime targets for lightning strikes. The higher a building rises above its surroundings, the greater the chance lightning will strike it. This is particularly true for skyscrapers, factories, and commercial complexes.

Metallic Objects – Lightning also seeks conductive materials like metals. Many commercial buildings use metal roofs, have rooftop equipment, or feature metal structures that make them more attractive to lightning.

Rooftop Equipment – Antennas, HVAC units, satellite dishes, and other equipment on commercial roofs provide pathways for lightning to reach the building’s electrical systems.

These objects increase the likelihood of a direct hit during a storm.

Water or Moisture – Wet surfaces act as efficient conductors for electricity. A wet commercial roof, especially metal, can amplify the chances of a lightning strike and increase the damage potential.

Visit FEMA’s National Lightning Risk Index to see your area’s relative risk for lightning strikes HERE.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Powerful lightning damage commercial roof

Lightning carries immense energy, capable of causing catastrophic damage. The average lightning bolt can have between 1 billion and 10 billion volts of electricity, with current ranging from 30,000 to 300,000 amperes.

The energy released during a lightning strike happens in microseconds, making it incredibly destructive. The heat and force can set fire to combustible materials. At the same time, the sheer electrical energy can cause massive surges in electrical systems.

Note: A lightning strike can exceed 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface).

Potential Damage to Commercial Buildings and Electronics

A lightning strike on a commercial roof can cause multiple damage types, ranging from minor structural issues to significant system failures. These are among the most common damages:

Fire – The extreme temperatures generated by a lightning strike can ignite roofing materials, insulation, or even the building’s framing. Commercial buildings with combustible roofing material or stored flammable materials are particularly vulnerable to lightning fires.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike can blow holes in a roof, crack tiles, damage membranes, or displace entire sections of roofing material. These openings allow water to enter the building, leading to leaks and further structural damage.

Electrical Surges – When lightning strikes a commercial building, the electrical surge that follows can:

  • Overload wiring systems
  • Destroy electronics
  • Seize HVAC systems
  • Shut down security systems
  • Render essential building infrastructure (including elevators) unusable

Computers, servers, and other equipment sensitive to power surges are especially at risk.

Electronics lightning damage commercial roof

Structural Damage – A lightning strike can disrupt structural elements. A lightning strike can crack walls, damage windows, and shift a building’s foundation. These damages pose severe risks to the building’s safety and stability.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Emergency responders lightning damage commercial roof

After a lightning strike, taking immediate action to assess the damage and ensure the building’s occupant’s safety is crucial. Here’s who you should contact:

Emergency Services – If you detect any fire or gas leaks following a lightning strike (call emergency services immediately). Firefighters can quickly address visible fires, while police can help secure the area if needed.

Electrician – A licensed electrician should assess the electrical systems for damage. Electrical surges from lightning can cause hidden damage to wiring, outlets, and equipment that may not be immediately visible but can pose a risk of fires or system failures later on.

Roofing Contractor – A ROOFING PROFESSIONAL needs to inspect the roof for punctures, cracks, or any damage to the roofing materials. Even small holes can lead to significant water damage over time if not repaired promptly.

HVAC Technician – Many commercial buildings have HVAC units installed on the roof, which are highly vulnerable during a lightning strike. A technician should inspect HVAC systems to ensure they function without severe electrical damage.

Insurance Company – Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and initiate a claim. Document all visible damage, including photographs and written descriptions, as part of the claim process.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and how deductibles work.

Preventing Lightning Damage to Commercial Buildings

While you cannot prevent lightning strikes, you can take measures to reduce damage risks and protect your building. Here are some steps building owners can take:

Install a Lightning Protection System (LPS) – A lightning protection system consists of lightning rods, conductor cables, and ground rods that work together to safely direct the energy from a lightning strike away from the building and into the ground. LPS systems are essential for taller buildings or in areas prone to thunderstorms.

Lightning damage commercial roof protection system

Lightning Rods – These rods, installed on the roof or other high points, attract and minimize lightning strikes.

Conductors – These cables carry the electrical charge from the rod down to the ground without letting it pass through the building.

Grounding System – Ground rods safely dissipate the energy into the ground, preventing it from entering the building’s systems.

Use Surge Protectors – Commercial buildings should have surge protection devices (SPDs) in their electrical systems. These devices protect against voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes and prevent damage to sensitive electronics.

Whole-building surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from electrical systems, ensuring appliances, computers, and other devices do not suffer damage.

Maintain a Safe Distance Between Trees and Buildings – Trees near commercial buildings can act as lightning attractors. If a lightning strike hits a tree, it may cause large branches to fall on the roof, leading to additional damage. Regular tree trimming and ensuring no large trees are close to the building will help reduce this risk.

Install Non-Conductive Roofing Materials – Buildings with metal roofing systems are more attractive to lightning strikes due to metal’s conductive nature. Consider installing non-metallic roofing materials that offer fire resistance, reducing the likelihood of fires after a strike.

HVAC and Rooftop Equipment Shielding – Ensure rooftop equipment like HVAC systems, antennas, and satellite dishes are properly shielded and grounded to protect them from lightning damage. Adding surge protectors for these systems can further prevent damage.

Lightning and Commercial Buildings

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes are attracted to commercial buildings, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent commercial building lightning strikes can help you avoid severe structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your building’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment and result in indefinite business closure.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
/by

Lightning Strikes on Residential Roofs – Causes, Damage, and Prevention

Avoid costly structural damage and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your home. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your home.

Lightning strike damage residential roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about how lightning strikes affect a home’s electrical systems, appliances, and structural integrity and what you can do to mitigate them.

How Lightning Forms

Lightning forms during thunderstorms resulting from imbalances between positive and negative charges in the atmosphere. Ice crystals and water droplets collide in a storm, creating an electrical charge buildup. A cloud’s upper portion typically holds positive charges, while the lower section becomes negatively charged.

When this imbalance grows large enough, nature corrects it by discharging electricity as a lightning strike. The bolt either moves within the cloud, between clouds, or between the cloud and the ground. A lightning strike to the ground occurs when the negative charge at the cloud’s bottom seeks to connect with positive charges on the Earth’s surface.

What Attracts Lightning?

Lightning strike damage residential roof satellite

Lightning seeks the least resistant path to connect to the ground. This often means it targets tall or conductive objects. Here are some common attractors:

Tall Objects – Lightning frequently strikes the highest point in an area, like trees, utility poles, or a home’s roof.

Conductive Materials – Lightning is attracted to conductive materials like metals. Roofs with metal flashing or metal objects mounted on them (like satellite dishes, antennas, or chimneys) may become targets for lightning.

Water and Wet Surfaces – Water is an excellent electricity conductor. If a roof is wet, it can enhance conductivity, making it more attractive to lightning.

Note: Lightning doesn’t need to hit the exact rooftop to cause damage. Even nearby strikes can result in electrical surges and fires within your home.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Lightning is powerful. The average lightning bolt can contain up to 1 billion electrical volts with temperatures exceeding 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface). The energy released by a lightning strike can be up to 300 kilowatt-hours in a fraction of a second. This immense energy release can damage everything, including electronics, electrical wiring, and a home’s structural integrity.

Potential Damage to a Home’s Structure and Electronics

Lightning strike damage residential shingle roof

A direct lightning strike to a residential roof can cause various damages, including:

Fire Damage – The intense heat from a lightning strike can ignite combustible materials like wood and shingles on a home’s roof. Even metal roofs are not immune to fire risks since the heat can reach high enough temperatures to cause surrounding materials to catch fire.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike’s force can shatter roof tiles, damage shingles, or puncture holes in the roof. This leaves the home vulnerable to further damage from rainwater entering the structure.

Electrical Damage – Power surges are among the most common lightning results. When lightning strikes a home or nearby power lines, the surge can travel through electrical wiring, destroying appliances and electronics. Devices like televisions, computers, and HVAC systems are particularly vulnerable.

Lightning strike electronics damage residential roof

Plumbing Damage – If your home has metal plumbing, lightning can travel through it, leading to ruptures, leaks, or electrocution hazards.

Structural Damage – A lightning strike’s force can cause cracks in walls, damage to chimneys, and even foundation movement in extreme cases.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Emergency responders lightning strike damage residential roof

If your home is struck by lightning, you should immediately ensure your family’s and your property’s safety. Here’s who to contact:

Emergency Services – If you notice fire, smoke, or gas leak indications after a lightning strike, call 911 immediately. Lightning-induced fires can spread quickly, and first responders can prevent an issue from becoming catastrophic.

Electrician – Even if there are no immediate damage signs, have an electrician inspect your home’s electrical system. A surge from a lightning strike can cause hidden damage to your wiring, outlets, and appliances that may lead to future problems or fire risks.

Roofer – A licensed professional roofing contractor should inspect your roof for any damage caused by the strike. Even small punctures or cracks in the shingles can lead to leaks and water damage over time.

Plumber – If your home has metal plumbing, a plumber should inspect your pipes for damages. Lightning can cause holes in pipes or weaken them, leading to potential leaks or bursts later on.

Insurance Company – Lightning strikes are usually covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Be sure to document all visible damage and keep any receipts for emergency repairs.

Watch this video to learn more about insurance coverage and deductibles.

Preventing and Diverting Lightning Strikes

While you can’t stop a lightning strike from happening, there are several steps you can take to minimize damage risks to your home:

Install a Lightning Protection System – A lightning rod system is designed to direct a lightning strike’s energy safely into the ground, preventing damage to your home. The system typically includes rods, conductors, and ground rods that create a low-resistance path for the electricity to follow.

Lightning strike damage protection residential roof

Surge Protectors – Install whole-home surge protectors to help guard against power surges from lightning. These devices are connected to your home’s main electrical panel, preventing excess electricity from reaching your outlets and appliances.

Unplug Electronics – During a storm, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics like televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. While surge protectors help, unplugging devices offers maximum protection from surges.

Tree Trimming – Trees near your home can become targets for lightning. Keep them trimmed and ensure that large limbs are not hanging over your roof. If lightning strikes a tree, falling or ejected branches can cause significant damage to your roof.

Use Non-Combustible Roofing Materials – If you live in an area prone to lightning, consider using fire-resistant roofing materials like metal or tile. These materials are less likely to ignite compared to traditional asphalt shingles.

Read more about lightning strike prevention HERE.

Lightning and Residential Structures

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes affect residential structures, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent residential lightning strikes can help avoid costly structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your home’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment, resulting in an uninhabitable residence.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf
nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/blogs/2024/09/11/nfpa-780-and-protecting-buildings-from-lightning-strikes

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
/by

Your Commercial Building and Roof after a Fire – What to Do Next

Avoid prolonged business closure and revenue loss when a fire damages your commercial building. Knowing how to react to a building fire will save lives and minimize structural and cosmetic damage.

Fire damage commercial building roofing system

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about emergency procedures, damage assessment, cleanup, and restoration when a fire breaks out in your commercial building.

1. Evacuating a Commercial Building

A commercial building fire can be devastating and costly. Immediate action after the event can help mitigate damage and ensure a safe return to business operations. Consider the following information:

Stay Calm and Follow the Evacuation Plan

Fire alarm activation commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

The first and most crucial step during a fire is ensuring everyone’s safety. Ensure your commercial building has a well-communicated and regularly practiced evacuation plan. During a fire:

  • Activate the Fire Alarm: Ensure the fire alarm system is triggered to alert all occupants in the building.
  • Guide Employees and Visitors: Designated fire wardens should guide everyone to the nearest safe exit, following the evacuation routes.
  • Avoid Elevators: Use stairways, not elevators, as elevators could malfunction or become traps during a fire.
  • Close Doors Behind You: As you exit, close doors to contain the fire and slow its spread.
  • Account for Everyone: Once outside, gather at a pre-designated assembly point and account for all employees and visitors.

Assist The Elderly and Disabled

Ensure that elderly and disabled occupants are given priority assistance and have an assigned helper if needed. Ensure all staff knows the procedures for assisting anyone needing extra help evacuating.

2. Calling Emergency Responders

Emergency services for commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

Contact 911 Immediately

As soon as the fire is detected, call 911 to report the fire. Provide the dispatcher with:

  • The building’s address.
  • The nature of the fire (if known).
  • Any known hazards, like flammable materials.
  • The number of people in the building, if known.
  • The condition of the fire (e.g., visible flames, smoke).

Tip: While some fire alarms automatically alert emergency responders, call them anyway. The fire could disrupt communication lines.

Notify Key Personnel

Contact building management, security, and other essential personnel to inform them of the situation. This ensures that everyone is aware and can assist in managing the emergency.

3. Cleanup After the Fire

Cleanup after commercial building and roof fire damage

Prompt action after a fire is required to halt soot’s acidic properties and remove lingering odors from the building. Consider the following steps to make your commercial building habitable again:

Assess the Damage

Once the fire is extinguished and it’s safe to re-enter the building, conduct a damage assessment. This includes:

  • Smoke and Soot Damage: Smoke and soot can cause extensive damage to walls, ceilings, and furniture. The acidic nature of smoke and soot can corrode metals and stain surfaces if not removed promptly.
  • Water Damage: Water used to extinguish the fire can also cause damage. Flooded areas, soaked walls, and electrical systems must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage, corrosion, or mold growth.
  • Structural Damage: Inspect the building for any structural damage signs. Pay particular attention to load-bearing walls, support beams, and the roof.

Hire a Professional Cleanup Crew

Consider hiring a professional fire damage restoration company to ensure a thorough cleanup and restoration job. They have the tools and expertise to:

  • Remove Smoke and Soot Residue: Use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove smoke and soot from surfaces.
  • Water Extraction and Drying: Use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to dry out soaked areas and prevent mold growth.
  • Debris Removal: Safely remove fire-damaged materials and debris from the site.

Air Out the Building

Open windows and doors to ventilate the building. This helps to remove lingering smoke odors and starts the drying process for any water-damaged areas.

4. Ensuring Building Integrity

Inspection for commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

Before reopening your commercial building to employees and visitors, you must ensure their safety by completing the following:

Structural Assessment

Before any repairs begin, a structural engineer should inspect the building to ensure it is safe for occupancy. The engineer will:

  • Evaluate the Stability: Assess the overall stability of the building and determine if any sections are a collapse risk.
  • Check Load-Bearing Walls and Beams: Ensure these components are intact and secure.
  • Roof Inspection: Inspect the roof for signs of damage, such as warping, sagging, or holes caused by the fire.

Making the Roof Safe

Commercial roof fire damage

A critical part of the post-fire inspection is assessing the roof’s condition. Even if the fire didn’t appear to reach the roof, it might still be compromised by:

  • Heat Damage: Intense heat can warp roofing materials and weaken the structure.
  • Water Damage: Water from firefighting efforts can seep into the roof, leading to potential water damage or mold.
  • Debris: Debris from the fire, such as charred materials, could be resting on the roof, adding weight and causing further damage.

Repairs or replacement may be necessary. It’s crucial to address roof damage quickly to prevent leaks, structural failure, or other problems that could arise.

5. Post-Fire Resources

After a fire, several key organizations and service providers need to be contacted to help restore your building and resume operations.

Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire. They will:

  • Assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
  • Guide you through the claims process.
  • Provide coverage for fire, water, and smoke damage per your policy.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management

If you rent or lease your commercial space, notify your property management company. They can:

  • Coordinate with your insurance and restoration teams.
  • Provide guidance on your responsibilities versus the landlord’s for repairs and restoration.

Power Company

Contact your utility provider to:

  • Have the electricity turned off if it wasn’t already done by emergency responders.
  • Ensure that power is safely restored once repairs are complete.

Water Company

If your building suffered water damage, contact the water company to:

  • Address any potential issues with water lines or flooding.
  • Ensure that water service is safe to resume.

Gas Company

If your building uses natural gas, it’s crucial to contact the gas company to:

  • Ensure that the gas supply is safely shut off.
  • Conduct an inspection of the gas lines before turning the service back on.

Fire Restoration Services

Restoration services commercial building and roof fire damage

A professional fire restoration service can handle the entire cleanup and restoration process. These providers will work with your insurance company and can often provide comprehensive services, including:

  • Smoke and soot removal.
  • Water extraction and drying.
  • Structural repairs.
  • Roof inspection and repairs.

Local Government or Building Inspector

In some cases, local authorities or a building inspector may need to certify the commercial building is safe to occupy again. They will:

  • Conduct a final inspection after repairs.
  • Issue any necessary permits or certifications for reopening.

Commercial Building and Roof Fire Damage

In this article, you discovered crucial information and guidance on surviving a commercial building fire and how to get repairs done quickly.

Recognizing the extreme dangers of a commercial building fire will help you save occupant lives and get your business operational after a prompt cleanup and restoration.

Failure to take immediate action during a commercial building fire can result in excessive structural damage, severe revenue loss, indefinite business closure, and death.

Sources:
osha.gov/etools/evacuation-plans-procedures/eap/elements/floorplan-demo
fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems/building-evacuation-safety
smallbusinesscoach.org/essential-steps-for-successful-commercial-damage-restoration/
obpeace.org/index-3090.html

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
/by

Your Home and Roof After a Fire – Steps to Recovery

Avoid panic and confusion when a fire threatens to destroy your home. Knowing what to do after a home fire will help you secure your home and protect your loved ones.

Severe damage residential fire recovery

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information and guidance on surviving and recovering from a catastrophic house fire.

1. Evacuating Your Home

Evacuating loved ones residential fire recovery

Experiencing a house fire will change your life in several (often traumatic or overwhelming) ways. Knowing the necessary steps required after the fire can help you regain control, ensure safety, and begin the recovery process. Consider the following:

Stay Calm and Follow Your Evacuation Plan

The first priority during a fire is your and your family’s safety. It’s vital to have an established evacuation plan that everyone in the household knows. During a fire:

  • Alert Everyone: If you detect a fire, immediately alert everyone in the house. Ensure that everyone knows how to get out quickly and safely.
  • Use the Safest Exit: Use the nearest exit to leave the house. Use a secondary exit or window when your primary exit is blocked by fire or smoke.
  • Avoid Smoke: If there is smoke, stay low where the air is cleaner, and cover your nose and mouth with a cloth.
  • Do Not Delay: Do not attempt to collect belongings or pets; focus on getting everyone out safely.
  • Gather at a Safe Location: Once outside, gather at a pre-designated meeting spot, away from the house, and ensure everyone is accounted for.

Assisting Those with Disabilities or the Elderly

Ensure that elderly or disabled family members are assisted during the evacuation. Assign a family member to help them if necessary and ensure everyone knows how to assist those who need it.

2. Calling Emergency Responders

Emergency responders residential fire recovery

The faster you engage emergency services, the less damage a fire can inflict on your home. Emergency responders typically arrive within minutes after an emergency call. Immediately do the following:

Contact 911 Immediately

Once everyone is safely outside, call 911 to report the fire. Provide the dispatcher with:

  • Your home’s address.
  • The nature and extent of the fire (if known).
  • Any known hazards, such as gas lines or flammable materials.
  • Whether anyone is still inside the house.

Tip: When calling emergency services, remain calm and concise (ensure the operator can understand you clearly).

Notify Neighbors

If the fire threatens neighboring homes, notify your neighbors and urge them to evacuate if necessary.

3. Cleanup After the Fire

Restoration services residential fire recovery

Fire and smoke damage may appear (and smell) much worse than it is. Here are the steps to get the cleanup started:

Assess the Damage

After the fire is extinguished and authorities have declared it safe to return, assess the damage. This includes:

  • Smoke Damage: Smoke can cause significant damage to walls, ceilings, and belongings. Smoke residue is acidic and can corrode metals and permanently stain surfaces.
  • Water Damage: Water used to extinguish the fire can cause its own set of problems, including waterlogged furniture, soaked walls, and potential mold growth.
  • Structural Damage: Inspect the home for any signs of structural damage, such as weakened walls, floors, or roofing.

Hire a Professional Cleanup Service

Ensure a thorough cleanup and restoration by considering a professional fire damage restoration company. These experts can:

  • Remove Smoke Residue: Use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove smoke stains and odors.
  • Water Extraction and Drying: Deploy industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry out water-damaged areas and prevent mold.
  • Debris Removal: Safely remove fire-damaged materials and debris from your home.

Ventilate the Home

Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and help remove lingering smoke odors. This also aids in drying out any moisture from firefighting efforts.

Tip: Air movers (high-powered fans) can be placed near doors and windows to accelerate ventilation.

4. Ensuring Structural Integrity

The intense heat a fire produces can severely damage your home’s support beams (wood, metal, or concrete). Use the following to ensure you are entering a safely supported home.

Structural Inspection

Before making any repairs, it’s crucial to have your home inspected by a structural engineer to ensure it is safe to reoccupy. The engineer will:

  • Evaluate the Stability: Check the overall stability of the home, including load-bearing walls and support beams.
  • Inspect for Hidden Damage: Look for hidden damage that could compromise the home’s structural integrity.
  • Roof Inspection: Pay special attention to the condition of the roof, which may have been damaged by the fire or firefighting efforts.

Roof damage repair residential fire recovery

Roof Safety

A critical part of the post-fire inspection is assessing the roof’s condition. Even if the fire didn’t reach the roof, it might still be compromised by:

  • Heat Damage: Intense heat can cause roofing materials to warp or weaken.
  • Water Damage: Water used to fight the fire can seep into the roof structure, leading to potential water damage or mold growth.
  • Debris: Fire debris could have fallen onto the roof, adding weight and possibly causing damage.

If any issues are found, immediate repair or replacement is necessary to prevent leaks or further damage.

5. Post-Fire Resources

Roof damage residential fire recovery

After a fire, several key organizations and service providers should be contacted to help restore your home and begin the recovery process.

Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire. They will:

  • Assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
  • Guide you through the claims process.
  • Cover fire, water, and smoke damage according to your policy.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management (if applicable)

If you rent your home, contact your property management company or landlord. They can:

Coordinate with your insurance and restoration teams.
Provide guidance on your responsibilities versus theirs in terms of repairs and restoration.

Utility Companies

Power Company

Contact your power company to:

  • Ensure the electricity is safely turned off if it wasn’t already done by emergency responders.
  • Safely restore power once repairs are complete.

Water Company

Reach out to your water company to:

  • Address any potential issues with water lines or flooding.
  • Ensure that water service is safe to resume.

Gas Company

If your home uses natural gas, contact the gas company to:

  • Ensure that the gas supply is safely shut off.
  • Conduct an inspection of the gas lines before turning the service back on.

Fire Restoration Services

damage restoration services residential fire recovery

A professional fire restoration service can handle the entire cleanup and restoration process. These professionals can work with your insurance company and can often provide comprehensive services, including:

  • Smoke and soot removal.
  • Water extraction and drying.
  • Structural repairs.
  • Roof inspection and repairs.

Local Government or Building Inspector

Damage inspection residential fire recovery

In some cases, local authorities or a building inspector may need to certify that the home is safe to occupy again. They will:

  • Conduct a final inspection after repairs are complete.
  • Issue any necessary permits or certifications for reoccupation.

Mental Health Services

Experiencing a fire can be a traumatic event. If you or your family members are struggling to cope with the aftermath, consider reaching out to mental health professionals for support.

Community Assistance Programs

Many communities have assistance programs for families affected by fires, including temporary housing, food, and clothing. Contact your local Red Cross or community center for help.

Before A House Fire

Installing fire detectors residential fire prevention

A crucial preventive measure to keep you and your loved ones safe from a fire in your home is:

Installing Smoke Alarms and CO2 Detectors

  • Properly working smoke alarms and CO2 detectors decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half.
  • Place smoke alarms and CO2 detectors on every level of your residence. Place them outside bedrooms on the ceiling or high on the wall (4 to 12 inches from ceiling), at the top of open stairways, or at the bottom of enclosed stairs and near (not in) the kitchen.
  • Test and clean smoke alarms and CO2 detectors once a month, and if your model uses a 9-volt battery, be sure to replace the battery annually when you change your clocks back to Standard Time in the fall.
  • Newer alarms with a lithium battery may not need to be changed annually but still require periodic cleaning and testing. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the model you have (if you do not have the physical instructions, they can be found with a simple Google search – type in the device’s make and model number and instructions). Replace smoke alarms and CO2 detectors every 10 years.

Read more about installing and maintaining smoke alarms at fortsmithar.gov/government/departments/fire/citizen-fire-resources/smoke-alarm-safety

Recovering from a House Fire

In this article, you discovered information and detailed guidance on surviving and recovering from a destructive house fire.

Recognizing the structural dangers your home presents after a fire will help you take the necessary steps to make sure your home is safe to occupy and get repairs and cleanup done quickly and efficiently.

Failing to quickly take action after a house fire will leave you with an uninhabitable and severely damaged home requiring extensive and costly repairs.

Sources:
usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf
gema.georgia.gov/house-fires
ready.gov/home-fires

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
/by