The Restoration Sequence
Recovery Happens in Stages
Fire damage isn’t just flames — smoke, soot, water from firefighting and odour all need specialist attention. A staged approach secures the property, removes contaminants, dries wet structure, and reinstates finishes so you can return safely.
Salvage vs Replace
What Can Usually Be Salvaged?
| Item | Often Salvageable | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hard furniture | Yes | Soot & odour removal, surface refinishing |
| Upholstery & rugs | Sometimes | Depends on heat & smoke exposure |
| Photos & documents | Yes | Specialist freeze-drying & cleaning |
| Charred structural timber | Often | Cleans & seals; badly burnt replaced |
Document Everything
Working With Your Insurer
1
Photograph all damage
Wide shots plus close-ups of each affected item before any cleanup.
2
Keep all receipts
Temporary repairs, accommodation and restoration costs all need records.
3
Use certified restorers
Insurers prefer IICRC-style documentation and staged reporting.
4
Don’t discard too soon
Hold items for assessment — many “writes off” goods are restorable.