What to Do and Prepare for When you Evacuate:

Evacuation Guide to a Safe and Informed Recovery

Welcome back! Returning home after a wildfire can be overwhelming, but with the right steps, you can ensure your home is safe and secure.

Essential Actions to Take Immediately When You Return From Evacuating:

 

1. 1. Document Damage Thoroughly:
      

       

      • • Take photos and videos of everything, including each room, personal items, and structural areas. Documentation is essential for insurance purposes.
      • • Make detailed notes about any smoke odors, soot stains, or structural damage you observe.

1. 1. Use the Soot Test Sponge:
      

       

      • • Test surfaces like walls, counters, and vents to identify any soot or smoke damage that may not be immediately visible. Document and do not clean away the soot before documenting.

1. 1. Be Cautious About Filing an Insurance Claim:
      

       

      • • Filing an insurance claim for minor damage could have long-term consequences. A claim on your record can lead to higher premiums or even non-renewal of your policy.
      • • Before filing a claim, ask yourself if the damage is significant enough to be covered by insurance. If repair costs are close to your deductible, it may be better to handle them out-of-pocket.

Not sure whether to file? Call Allied Restoration Services, Inc. for a free expert consultation and we’ll help you determine if filing a claim is the best course of action.

Critical Next Steps to When You Return Home After a Wildfire:

 

• • Duct Cleaning: Your HVAC system may have pulled in smoke, ash, or soot. Without professional duct cleaning, this debris can linger in your home’s air and cause health issues.

• • Odor Removal & Deodorization: Even if you can’t see the damage, the smell of smoke can permeate your home and be harmful to your health. We offer advanced deodorization services to eliminate smoke odors and restore fresh air to your home.

Why Acting Now is Crucial:

By taking the right steps now, you can avoid further complications and unnecessary costs. Don’t rush into filing an insurance claim without understanding the potential risks—such as increased premiums or being dropped from your coverage. Our expert team is here to guide you through every stage of your recovery.

Contact Allied Restoration Services, Inc.We are specialists in wildfire recovery, from damage assessment and professional cleaning to deodorization and expert guidance on insurance claims. 

Call us today for a free consultation—we’re here to help you protect your home and navigate this difficult time with confidence.