Case study: Fire clearance and clean
A fire within a home can have a devastating impact.
Quick and effective action is critical to minimise damage and restore the home.
This recent case study from ServiceMaster Restore Devon details our role in addressing the aftermath of a fire caused by a DIY dehumidifier.
The incident resulted in extensive smoke and fire damage, leaving the property needing urgent professional intervention.
Situation
We were called to assist after a fire triggered by a DIY dehumidifier in a bedroom of a barn conversion caused significant smoke and fire damage.
Solution
We began by taking a detailed inventory of all items on the property, even including the contents of the cutlery drawer.
Once the inventory was complete, we removed all items and transported them to a local waste facility for disposal using our company vehicles.
After the clearance, we were asked to provide a quotation for a full internal structural cleaning.
We arrived on-site within 24 hours of the quote acceptance to begin the work.
Our focus was on the high-risk fixtures and fittings vulnerable to secondary damage from the acidic nature of soot, including chrome-plated taps, shower screens, rails, plastic electrical fittings, and kitchen units.
The property was plastered with lime mortar, which made soot removal particularly challenging.
We started by vacuuming all surfaces to eliminate loose soot, which removed approximately 80% of the contamination.
After the dry cleaning, we used ServiceMaster restoration cleaning agents to wash all surfaces suitable for wet cleaning, eliminating residual contamination in preparation for redecoration.
Outcome
Our cleaning process significantly reduced the risk of cross-contamination and odour.
The work took five days in total, and while some surfaces still show staining, they are thoroughly cleaned and ready for stain blocking and redecoration.
The property was left soot-free and clean, ready for the next trades to restore it to its pre-incident condition.
Don’t know what to do next? We do.
For specialist fire clearance and cleaning, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.
Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.
