Fire • Soot • Smoke Restoration

Commonly Asked Questions

Will the fire damage be covered by my insurance?

Fire often affects contents and the structure. Your policy will address coverage and how it will apply to both structure and contents. A representative from your insurance carrier will be able to answer any questions that you have regarding coverage. As a certified restoration firm, Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ works with you and your insurance company to make the process as smooth as possible.

What are my responsibilities as an insured?

To protect your property from further damage. This may include boarding up the property, drying the affected areas and protecting the property from weather. Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ can provide all necessary emergency and mitigate services 24 hours a day seven days a week.

What if I can not live/work in the property?

Your policy will address available coverage for “Additional Living Expenses” and/or “Loss of Use”. A representative from your insurance carrier will be able to answer any questions that you have regarding coverage. Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ can assist with any relocation needs.

How long will the drying equipment be in my property?

Drying equipment will be on-site until the area is completely dry. Even through the area may “look” dry it may not be dry. A Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ Technician will be monitoring your property’s drying process and will keep you informed of the progress. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ representative.

What products do you use to clean the damage?

Restoration companies use a variety of products depending on the circumstances. You may ask your representative to provide you with MSDS sheets for any products being used in your property. Advise a representative if you or any members of the property have any chemical sensitives or other health concerns that you feel may be relevant.

Please contact Berks ● Fire ● Water Restorations, Inc.℠ 24 hours a day seven days a week with any questions or concerns throughout the restoration process. At the time of the initial emergency numerous emergency and insurance personnel will be giving you a lot of information and many instructions. It is normal to have questions throughout the process and we are here to help you.

Checklist

• Report fire damage to your insurance agent.
• Call a certified restoration company to secure the property and mitigate
• Document damage with photographs
• Do not enter the premises without permission of the Fire Marshall or Building Inspector
• Do not attempt to clean soot and smoke damage areas with any liquid. Your cleaning could set soot and cause additional damage
• Do not touch items without gloves. Oils in your hands can permanently set soot causing irreversible damage
• Do not enter the affected areas. Make sure children and pets do not enter the affected areas.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when on the scene and during repair process. The air can be contaminated, debris may be throughout the premises and overhead dangers may be present.
• Notify your BFW representative immediately of any concerns with items of high sentimental or real value. Survival rates of items that receive immediate restoration attention are much higher.
• Do not turn off or move equipment without contacting BFW. Contact BFW regarding any power failure issues.