Tag Archive for: fire restoration

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How Changing Weather Patterns Are Increasing Summer Fire Risks Across the UK

For many years, fire risk in the UK was largely associated with accidents inside buildings. Electrical faults, cooking incidents, and heating appliances were often the main causes of concern.

Longer dry spells, higher temperatures, and more frequent extreme weather events are creating new fire risks across the country. From garden barbecues and dry grass to commercial waste storage and woodland areas, the conditions that allow fires to start and spread are becoming more common.

While the UK may not experience the same wildfire conditions as some parts of Europe, recent summers have shown that fires can spread surprisingly quickly when weather conditions are right.

Why Summer Fire Risks Are Increasing

The UK’s weather is becoming less predictable.

Many areas are experiencing:

  • Longer dry spells
  • Higher average summer temperatures
  • More frequent heatwaves
  • Drier vegetation and grassland

When plants, grass, hedges, and woodland become dry, they ignite easily.

A single spark can sometimes be enough.

This does not mean every hot day creates a fire risk, but it does mean that homeowners, businesses, and land managers need to be more aware of the changing conditions around them.

Garden Fire Risks During Summer

For many people, summer means spending more time outdoors.

Barbecues, fire pits, outdoor cooking equipment, and garden parties become more common.

Unfortunately, these activities can also increase the risk of fire.

Common causes of garden fires include:

  • Disposable barbecues placed on grass
  • Barbecues positioned too close to fences or sheds
  • Fire pits left unattended
  • Hot ashes disposed of too soon
  • Outdoor electrical equipment overheating

Most garden fires start small. However, dry conditions allow them to spread much faster than expected.

The Growing Risk of Grass and Wildfires

Dry grass can become highly flammable during periods of hot weather.

Parks, fields, roadside verges, and woodlands may all be affected.

Many grass fires begin accidentally through:

  • Discarded cigarettes
  • Disposable barbecues
  • Glass bottles left in direct sunlight
  • Machinery and equipment that produce sparks

Once a fire takes hold, wind can spread it rapidly across large areas.

In recent years, several parts of the UK have experienced significant wildfires that threatened homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

Commercial Properties Face Risks Too

Summer fire risks are not limited to residential properties.

Commercial sites often have external areas that become vulnerable in hot weather.

Facilities managers and business owners should pay particular attention to:

  • Waste storage compounds
  • Pallet storage areas
  • Smoking shelters
  • Loading bays
  • Outdoor plant and machinery

Dry cardboard, timber, packaging materials, and vegetation can all provide fuel for fire.

Regular inspections are especially important during periods of warm weather.

How Small Fires Become Major Incidents

One of the most dangerous assumptions people make is that a small fire will remain small.

In dry conditions, this is not always the case.

A barbecue ember can ignite grass.

A grass fire can spread to fencing.

A fence fire can reach sheds, vehicles, or buildings.

The speed at which fire spreads often surprises people.

This is why early detection and prompt action are so important.

Protecting Your Property During Summer

Fortunately, several simple steps can reduce fire risk.

For homeowners:

  • Position barbecues away from buildings and fences
  • Never leave cooking equipment unattended
  • Keep gardens clear of excessive dry vegetation
  • Dispose of ashes safely
  • Test smoke alarms regularly

For businesses:

  • Remove combustible waste regularly
  • Maintain external areas
  • Review fire risk assessments during hot weather
  • Inspect outdoor storage areas
  • Ensure staff understand emergency procedures

Small preventive measures can make a significant difference.

Fire Damage Doesn’t End When the Flames Are Out

When a fire is extinguished, the visible flames may be gone, but damage often persists.

Smoke can spread throughout a property.

Soot can contaminate surfaces, furnishings, and equipment.

Water used to fight the fire can cause secondary damage and increase the risk of mould if not dealt with promptly.

The full impact of a fire is often much greater than people initially realise.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional fire and smoke damage restoration services throughout the UK.

Our teams respond promptly to assess damage, remove smoke and soot, carry out specialist cleaning, and restore affected properties after a fire.

We work with homeowners, businesses, insurers, and loss adjusters to help properties recover as quickly as possible.

If your property has been affected by fire, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

What to Do After Fire or Smoke Damage in Winter

Fire and smoke damage can be distressing at any time of year. During winter, it becomes even more difficult to manage. Cold weather, restricted ventilation, and extended drying times all contribute to the difficulty. Knowing what steps to take after a fire helps safeguard your property and prevents further damage.

The most important thing is to act quickly, but safely.

Step 1: Make Sure the Property Is Safe

Do not re-enter the property until the fire service declares it safe. Fire can weaken floors, ceilings, and walls. Even small fires may cause hidden structural damage.

If you smell gas or see damaged electrical wiring, stay outside and contact the relevant emergency service.

Step 2: Limit Further Damage

Once it is safe, take steps to prevent further damage.

  • Ventilate the property where possible by opening windows and doors briefly to release smoke odours.
  • Cover damaged areas if the weather permits.
  • Remove unaffected belongings from smoky rooms.
  • In winter, avoid leaving windows open for extended periods, as cold air slows drying and increases condensation.

Step 3: Avoid DIY Cleaning

Smoke residue and soot spread easily. Wiping surfaces without the proper products can push soot further into materials and cause stains to become permanent.

Soot contains dangerous particles. Inhaling them can irritate the lungs and eyes. Professional fire and smoke damage cleaning removes contamination safely and effectively.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurer Early

Notify your insurer promptly. Take photographs of all visible damage and record what has been affected. Do not dispose of any items until they have been inspected.

Your insurer may appoint a loss adjuster to assess the damage and advise on next steps.

Step 5: Start the Restoration Process

Fire damage restoration during winter takes longer. Cold air hampers drying, and smoke odours persist. Specialist equipment is required to clean, dry, and deodorise affected areas.

Professional restoration helps prevent long-term problems like corrosion, staining, and mould growth.

Why Winter Makes Fire and Smoke Damage Worse

In colder months, properties remain closed. Smoke particles settle further into soft furnishings, walls, and insulation. Moisture from firefighting can freeze or cause condensation, resulting in secondary water damage.

This makes prompt, professional intervention essential.

When to Get Professional Help

If your property has experienced fire or smoke damage in winter or at any time of year, expert support is essential. Proper cleaning, drying, and deodorising help protect both the building and the health of those living or working there. ServiceMaster Restore offers fire and smoke damage restoration nationwide in the UK.

Our teams work throughout the year and are familiar with the challenges brought by winter conditions.

If you need help after a fire, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

How to Dispose of Your Real Christmas Tree After the Holidays

Many people wonder how to properly dispose of their Christmas tree after taking down the decorations.

While a real tree looks beautiful in December, it dries out quickly once the holiday festivities are over. If you leave it for too long, the needles will start to drop, the trunk may become brittle, and the risk of fire will increase. The best course of action is to safely remove the tree and dispose of it appropriately for your home and local area.

Many people are uncertain about what to do with a real Christmas tree after the holidays. Here are the most practical and sensible options.

1. Use your council recycling scheme

Most councils collect real Christmas trees in January. Some ask you to place your tree next to your garden waste bin, while others provide designated drop-off points. The collected trees are processed into compost or wood chippings. This process is straightforward and helps keep the trees out of landfills. Be sure to check your local council’s website for specific dates and instructions.

2. Take it to a local recycling centre

If you prefer to deal with the tree straight away, you can bring it to your nearest recycling centre. They often have a separate section for garden waste. This is useful if your council collection is later than you would like.

3. Cut it up for your own garden use

If you have enough space, you can cut the tree into smaller pieces. The branches can be used as mulch around flower beds, while the trunk can be chopped into logs and left to dry. Avoid burning wood indoors, as fresh pine produces significant smoke and sap. Instead, let it dry for outdoor use later in the year.

4. Check for local charity collections

Some charities collect real Christmas trees for a small donation, making it an easy option that supports a good cause. Many hospice organisations run these collections each January.

5. Remove it as soon as possible

A dry Christmas tree poses a fire risk. After just a couple of weeks indoors, especially in warm rooms, the needles can dry out and become more flammable. Once the holiday season is over, it’s important to move the tree outside immediately. Even a short delay increases the risk of fire, especially if the tree remains close to heaters or lights.

6. Clean the area once the tree is gone

Real Christmas trees can leave behind sap, loose needles, and dust. A quick cleanup helps prevent mould, odours, and staining. Be sure to check the floor, skirting boards, and nearby walls for any marks or moisture.

Real Christmas trees bring life and colour to the season, but they need to be handled safely once the holidays are over. Quick removal reduces fire risks and keeps your home tidy. If you spot any signs of damp, smoke staining or accidental damage after the festive period, help is available.

ServiceMaster Restore can support you with smoke, fire or water issues at any time of year. Our teams act fast and keep your home safe during winter.

Call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

Home Safety Tips During the Festivities

Here are a few home safety tips to keep you safe this festive season, without taking the fun out of it.

December is a time for cosiness. Lights are hung, the heating is on, and the aroma of delicious food lingers in the air for weeks. However, it’s also a season when small accidents and home emergencies are more likely to occur. With candles, cooking, decorations, and cold weather, there are many things that can go wrong if you’re not careful.

1. Check your Christmas lights

Before hanging up lights, inspect them for frayed cables, cracked bulbs, or loose fittings. Older light sets can overheat, particularly when they are left on for extended periods. Whenever possible, choose LED lights, as they remain cooler and consume less power. Always remember to turn them off at night or when you leave the house.

2. Be careful with candles

Candles add a lovely ambience during this time of year, but they are a common cause of festive fires. Keep them away from curtains, decorations, and anything flammable. Never leave a room with a candle burning, no matter how quickly you think you’ll be back.

3. Cook safely

The kitchen becomes quite busy in December with guests, music, and children running around, making it easy to get distracted. To stay safe, keep tea towels, packaging, and decorations away from the stovetop. If you are deep-frying, never leave it unattended, even for a moment.

4. Keep heaters and fires clear

Radiators, electric heaters, and open fires all emit radiant heat that can easily dry out decorations or Christmas trees. Maintain a distance of at least one meter around any heat source. If you have a real tree, be sure to water it daily to prevent it from drying out.

5. Test your smoke alarms

A quick test takes only seconds but can save lives. Batteries discharge more quickly in cold, dry air, and heating systems tend to produce more dust. Ensure that every level of your home has a functioning smoke alarm.

6. Watch those extension leads

With lights, chargers, and gadgets everywhere, it’s easy to overload electrical sockets. Spread plugs across different outlets and avoid daisy-chaining extension cords. Too many devices in one socket can cause overheating quickly.

7. Plan for cold weather

Check the pipes in your loft and garage, especially during cold weather when temperatures can drop quickly. A frozen pipe can burst and cause flooding in your home within minutes. To prevent this, insulate the pipes where possible and keep the heating on low, even overnight, during very cold periods.

A little preparation can make a significant difference. Fires, leaks, and power issues can all be prevented with simple checks and a little awareness. If something does go wrong, ServiceMaster Restore UK is available 24/7 to assist you. Whether you’re dealing with fire, flood, or smoke damage, our technicians are ready to restore your home quickly and safely.

Stay updated by following our website and social media for more home safety tips and other content.

Call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

The Dangers Christmas Tree Fires and How to Avoid One

It’s easy to forget how much a Christmas tree can dry out indoors. One day it’s green and fresh, and the next it feels brittle, dropping needles everywhere. Add warm lights, dry air, and the occasional candle nearby, and suddenly you’ve got a serious fire risk sitting in the corner of your living room.

It may sound dramatic, but Christmas tree fires do occur, and quickly.

Radiant heat from a fire can ignite nearby objects alarmingly quickly. With a dry Christmas tree, flames can spread across the room in less than a minute. Even without direct contact, the intense heat from open flames or a fireplace can cause the needles to dry, smoke, and ignite.

Once the tree catches fire, it burns with extreme speed and temperature, dispersing flames, smoke, and toxic gases throughout the space almost instantly. Keeping your tree well away from open fires, candles, or stoves is one of the simplest and most effective Christmas tree fire safety measures you can take.

Here’s how to keep your home safe while still enjoying all the sparkle of the season.

1. Keep your tree watered

If you’ve got a real tree, treat it like a houseplant that drinks a lot more than you’d expect. A dry tree is like tinder. Make sure the stand always has water, and top it up daily. Once the base dries out, the trunk seals, and it stops absorbing moisture altogether.

2. Check your fairy lights

Old or damaged lights are one of the biggest culprits in Christmas tree fires. Before you plug them in, inspect for frayed wires, cracked bulbs, or loose connections. Use LED lights where possible — they stay cooler and use less electricity.

3. Don’t overload plug sockets

With lights, decorations, and maybe a few extra gadgets around, it’s tempting to use extension leads everywhere. Try not to. Too many plugs in one socket can overheat and start a fire.

4. Keep the tree away from heat sources

Avoid placing it near radiators, fireplaces, or candles. Even a few feet can make a difference. If you light candles nearby, never leave them unattended — it’s an easy mistake that causes hundreds of fires every year.

5. Switch off at night

It’s simple but often forgotten. Always turn off Christmas lights before bed or when you leave the house. You’ll save energy too, which is a bonus.

6. Know when it’s time to say goodbye

Once Christmas is over, don’t leave your tree sitting there until February. As it dries, the fire risk only increases. Dispose of it through local recycling schemes or garden waste collections.

Even with all the right precautions, accidents can still happen. If fire or smoke ever damages your home,  is here 24/7 to help. Our technicians can clean, repair, and restore your property quickly and safely, so you can focus on getting life back to normal.

For urgent help or advice, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business.

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Bonfire Night safety tips

How to have a safe bonfire night.

It’s vital to know Bonfire Night safety tips before enjoying the celebrations.

Read on for some helpful Bonfire Night safety tips to keep you, your family and friends safe this Bonfire Night.

Did you know that the Fire Brigade attends thousands of out-of-control bonfires each year?

Help to keep the Fire Brigade accessible for fires that can’t be prevented by following these simple Bonfire Night safety tips:

Bonfire Safety Tips

  • Check there is no wildlife or pets where you build your bonfire
  • Build your bonfire clear away from buildings, sheds, fences and hedges
  • Don’t light your bonfire with flammable liquids
  • Don’t burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans, paint tins, batteries or foam-filled furniture
  • Always have clear access to plenty of water in case you need to use it (buckets/hose pipe)
  • Never leave a bonfire unattended, and ensure it is damped out when finished

To prevent smoke from entering your home, ensure that windows are closed and doors are shut.

Any clothing worn for the bonfire should ideally be washed quickly to avoid the smell entering your home.

Need smoke or fire and smoke restoration?

Call emergency services immediately if you are unfortunate enough to be impacted by a spreading bonfire.

Our fire and smoke damage restoration experts at ServiceMaster Restore can help with the aftermath and restoration.

For 24/7 professional fire and smoke restoration services, call 0845 762 6828

Brokers to the Rescue: Have the right solution for policyholders

Most of the time, your policyholders need a hero. As a broker, you want that to be you.

But claims teams have a significant burden to manage. You have to process claims quickly and efficiently while maintaining effective communication in rapidly evolving and complex situations. This balancing act can be daunting. Not to mention, a lack of visibility and collaboration among different processes and parties can hinder your ability to deliver the prompt and straightforward resolutions that policyholders expect.

That’s where we come in.

ServiceMaster Restore is a UK-wide disaster recovery and specialist cleaning company with over 65 years of experience as part of the global ServiceMaster brand. We have the resources to handle any disaster restoration task, no matter how challenging, and assist you in becoming the local heroes their policyholders need.

Our professionals work alongside insurance-approved providers to streamline the claims process, cutting through the red tape that can delay crucial assistance when it matters most, so you can be the local hero your policyholders need in a crisis.

ServiceMaster Restore Connect

ServiceMaster Restore Connect is our UK-wide network of approved suppliers that allows us to connect with some of the UK’s most reputable trade experts and contractors, helping when it is needed most.

Through our ‘Connect’ network, we collaborate with top industry professionals to offer a comprehensive end-to-end solution for any restoration project. Your policyholders benefit not only from our 65+ years of expertise in delivering excellent disaster restoration services but also from access to expert-approved suppliers in various fields, including:

  • Drainage Solutions
  • Pest Control
  • Plumbing, Water & Heating
  • Electrical and Lighting
  • Refurbishment and Reinstatement work (painting and decorating)
  • Furniture and Upholstery Repairs
  • Building Repairs
  • Roofing
  • Floor Covering, Boarding & Scaffolding
  • Waste Management
  • Landscaping

In a crisis, time is money.

As our “Connect” network expands, we can support our customers in more ways, saying yes to more jobs and ensuring your policyholders receive the help they need when it matters most.

Whether for commercial or domestic properties, ServiceMaster Restore Connect seamlessly integrates with our services, bringing together vetted and approved local experts in various trades. No matter where you are in the country, you can trust ServiceMaster Restore to have an expert at your door the same day.

Our end-to-end solution mitigates damage and manages the reporting and completion of all restoration work, allowing you to dedicate more time to your customers while knowing that each client is being taken care of. For brokers, Restore Plus offers a risk-free experience for customers using our services. When making a claim, we work within their excess and report directly before an insurer can attend.

Together, ServiceMaster Restore and Connect ensure our local experts are available quickly to deliver professional solutions, sometimes even preventing the need for a claim.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

Through our exclusive ServiceMaster Restore Plus offering, we provide a service that meets the diverse needs of different sectors. We guarantee same-day callouts, exceptional service, and reduced claims costs. With a network of restoration specialists providing guaranteed same-day responses, Restore Plus is an invaluable asset for you and your customers. Just one phone call is all it takes to have a professional on-site the same day, eliminating the lengthy and costly claims processes. When disaster strikes, we’ve got you fully covered!

Comprehensive Nationwide Coverage

As a nationwide leader, we operate through locally owned franchises with team members who are part of the communities we serve. Our teams understand that challenging situations require compassion and swift action.

That’s why our services are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Whether it’s fire, flood, mould, trauma, or vandalism restoration, our skilled technicians across the UK are trained to use the right techniques for each scenario, guaranteeing effective and efficient results.

Ready to connect?

Join the supply chain for premium end-to-end claims management and disaster restoration solutions from an industry-leading brand with over 65 years of providing evolving and expert services across the UK.

Sign up for ServiceMaster Restore Connect and ServiceMaster Restore Plus and get connected to more local opportunities and be the hero your policyholders need. It’s easy and (not to mention) free!

Or, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

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How to Get Smoke Smell Out of House After a Fire

Eliminating the lingering effects of smoke damage with tips from the experts at ServiceMaster Restore.

Going through a fire is stressful. Fires can cause extensive damage throughout your home or property, which requires the help of professionals to restore.

In addition to repairing items burnt, soot-covered, or damaged by water from firefighting efforts, there’s also the question of how to remove the smoke smell from the house. The smell of soot or smoke can linger well after a fire, causing unwanted discomfort or damage to you and your family.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through removing smoke odours from your home. We’ve included immediate steps, deep cleaning suggestions, and odour-neutralisation recommendations.

4 Immediate Steps to Get Rid of Fire Smoke Smell

  1. Ensure the Fire is Completely Extinguished: This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Never attempt to clean or ventilate until you’re sure the fire is out and any investigations are complete.
  2. Ventilate (When Safe): Once it’s safe, open windows and doors to circulate fresh air. Use fans to exhaust smoky air outwards, not just within the house.
  3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
  4. Assess the Damage: Carefully evaluate the extent of the smoke damage. This will help determine whether you can handle the cleanup or need professional smoke odour cleaning.

How to Clean and Deodorise to Remove Smoke Smell

Essentially, everything in a home affected by fire smoke needs to be cleaned.

Some items may only require thorough airing to remove the smoke smell. However, most items, such as carpeting, rugs, curtains, upholstery, and clothing, will need a thorough cleaning and possible sanitisation.

While special tools and techniques used by professionals will be more effective, you can still take some steps to mitigate the damage caused by the smoke odour from items.

We’ll break it down by material type:

Cleaning Fabrics (Clothing, Bedding, Curtains, etc.)

  • Wash Everything Washable. Use a high-quality detergent and add a laundry booster designed for odour removal. Don’t forget often-overlooked items like pet bedding, stuffed animals, and even decorative pillows.
  • Dry Clean Delicate Items. Take delicate fabrics to a professional dry cleaner, and be sure to tell them about the smoke damage.
  • Dealing with Oily Soot. If your fabrics have oily soot, avoid using your washing machine, as it can clog. Instead, try taking them to a dry cleaner.
  • Storing Clean Materials. After cleaning, store items away from the affected area to prevent re-contamination.

Cleaning Hard Surfaces (Walls, Ceilings, Woodwork, etc.)

  • Wipe Down Everything. Use mild detergent and water to clean all hard surfaces, including painted surfaces, baseboards, doors, window frames/sills, and the outside and interiors of all cabinets and drawers.

Pro-Tip:

  • Act quickly. The acidic soot can cause metallic surfaces to corrode or rust within hours. Likewise, hard surfaces such as wood, wallpaper, drywall, or paint may start to discolour if soot is not removed shortly after damage. Remove soot as soon as possible to avoid hard-to-remove stains or odours.

Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

  • Vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. Avoid using an upright vacuum with a beater bar on upholstery, as this can push soot deeper into the fibres. Use a brush attachment and vacuum gently.
  • Spot Cleaning. For smaller areas, try spot cleaning with a specialised smoke odour remover. Test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first.
  • Professional Cleaning. For heavy smoke damage or if DIY methods are ineffective, consider hiring a professional smoke odour removal company.

Pro-Tips:

  • Upright Vacuums. Avoid vacuuming curtains or upholstery if you’re using an upright vacuum. The brushes can cause soot to go deeper into the material, resulting in more damage. Using the right equipment to remove the soot is important.
  • What to Do with Smoke-Damaged Wood Furniture. When cleaning, keep smoke-damaged wood furniture away from your carpet. The cleaning solutions may leak and cause carpet stains unless there is a protective barrier between the two.

Cleaning Hidden Areas (Drawers, Wardrobes, Light Fixtures, etc.)

Smoke can infiltrate even the smallest spaces. Empty and clean drawers and wardrobes thoroughly. Also, remember to clean light fixtures, behind appliances, and other often-overlooked areas.

Here are several tips for cleaning the hidden areas:

  • Drawers and Wardrobes. Empty them, wipe down all surfaces with a mild detergent, and leave them open to air out.
  • Light Fixtures. Wash removable covers and shades, wipe down bulbs and fixtures, and consider replacing bulbs with persistent odours.
  • Behind Appliances. Pull out appliances, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces.
  • Empty and wipe down all interior surfaces.
  • Under Furniture. Move furniture, vacuum, and clean underneath.

Odour Neutralisation Recommendations

  • Bicarbonate of Soda. Place bowls of bicarb around the house. Sprinkle it on carpets, let it sit, and then vacuum it up.
  • Activated Charcoal. Activated charcoal is another excellent odour absorber. Use charcoal bags or filters.
  • Place bowls of white vinegar around the house or simmer vinegar on the stovetop (just be careful not to burn it!).
  • Air Purifiers. A good quality air purifier with a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter can help remove smoke particles and odours from the air.

Note: These products may not be as effective at removing the smoke smell alone, but could help areas that weren’t as directly affected by the fire smoke.

Factors That Affect Smoke Odour Removal

Removing smoke odours from your home or property after a fire can seem straightforward. However, the amount of time needed to do so will depend on various factors.

These factors include:

  • Type of Soot. There are two types of soot: dry and oily. Dry soot is easier to clean and can be handled with a sponge and a low-alkaline detergent. Oily soot requires special techniques and equipment to be safely removed from your home. If you’re unsure, it’s time to get help from a professional to ensure that your home and belongings aren’t damaged.
  • Size of the Fire-damaged Area. If the affected area is small, the amount of effort needed to eliminate smoke smells will often be lower when compared to a large building with multiple rooms.
  • Size of the Fire. A larger fire can cause more damage, which will, in turn, lead to more potential for smoke odour throughout your property.
  • Time Delay After Fire. The longer you wait, the worse the smoke damage will get. Even if the damage seems minimal, most materials at home can start to yellow, discolour, rust, or corrode due to the impact of acidic soot or smoke particles. Treating them as soon as possible can improve your chances of reducing the need for more care.
  • Types of Materials Burned. Materials throughout your home react differently to soot and smoke molecules. Porous hard surfaces such as drywall, wallpaper, wood, and paint can become discoloured and permanently stained unless treated quickly. Acidic soot from a fire may also cause metallic surfaces to start rusting and corroding. Even cleaning your furniture may be damaging. Cleaning chemicals may seep into your carpet as it dries, carrying soot and smoke molecules that can cause stains.
  • Fire smoke infiltrates all areas of a home. It can seep into carpeting, furniture, clothing, draperies, books and even woodwork. Removing fire smoke smell from a home is a process best left to the professionals with the expertise, specialised equipment, and ability to work safely within your home without causing further damage.

Need Professional Smoke Odour Removal? We Can Help.

Call us if you’d like to trust your smoke-smell removal to the pros. After your home is affected by smoke, contact ServiceMaster Restore for smoke odour removal services that will restore it to normal.

Our team will work with you to ensure that your salvageable belongings are restored and that your home is free from smoke odours. We will also inspect your property after fire damage to ensure no extensive damage results in costly repairs down the road.

The experts at ServiceMaster Restore are standing by to help you remove unwanted odours from your home or office. Find your nearest experts or call 0800 021 3970 in a crisis to see how we can help you today.

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Navigating the Claims Process for Disaster Restoration

How to know when to claim on restoration work on your property.

When the unexpected happens, time is of the essence. Whatever the nature of the damage to your property, whether water and flood, fire and smoke or mould damage and vandalism, you need to be prepared to take the best course of action for the issue at hand.

But with so many variables and moving parts, it can be hard to know when, in the process of restoring your property, you need to claim on your insurance and what the restoration timeline is for your property.

In this blog post, the disaster restoration experts at ServiceMaster Restore, who regularly work with insurance brokers, loss assessors and adjustors to ensure swift and professional restoration work, walk you through the claims process for disaster restoration work and what to do when.

  1. Stay Safe and Conduct a Damage Assessment

Once you are safe, your first step to determine when to claim on restoration work will be to assess the damage promptly and/or professionally. An early and thorough assessment of the damage will help you know what you’re dealing with to prevent further deterioration, especially with water or mould issues and ensure accurate cost estimates later on, which are crucial for insurance claims.

At this point, you may want to engage restoration experts to conduct an accurate assessment and perform cost estimates, as they are more likely to have the tools and expertise necessary to identify hidden damages to your property.

  1. Make Contact

Whether your property is residential or commercial, the next step is to contact your building’s insurance company.

If you rent your property, inform your landlord about the damage, as they are likely responsible for the repairs. If you are the property owner, contact your insurance provider for any damage covered by your policy as soon as possible.

They are likely to advise you to take one of the following courses of action:

  • Contact their approved disaster restoration company
  • Send them photos for the insurance company to contact a disaster restoration expert
  • Find and contact a disaster restoration company

Logging the Claim with your Insurer

In some incidents, like a flood or burst pipe, which often occur out of hours or during high-demand periods, your insurer may not be able to immediately assist you.

Many restoration companies like ServiceMaster Restore operate 24/7 due to the unexpected nature of the majority of disasters property owners face. Therefore, we’ll be able to assist whenever you need us. In this instance, log a claim with your insurer and utilise their approved contractors or contact a restoration company yourself.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we understand that this aspect of the claims process can often be what hinders essential restoration work from happening as quickly and effectively as it should. That’s why, with ServiceMaster Restore Plus, we have streamlined the claims process. A service that understands the diverse needs across sectors, ensuring that everyone gets a tailor-made experience with a hassle-free add-on to your insurer’s existing cover, offer or policy, which allows us to act quickly 24/7, ensuring rapid response times, reduced costs and an exceptional service.

  1. The Claims Process for disaster restoration

Once the claim has been logged, your insurer is likely to provide a claim form, which you should complete accurately and keep for your records.

After the claim form and emergency repairs are done, your insurer may appoint a loss adjuster to investigate the cost of claims, the cause of the incident, and how much is covered by the insurance policy to agree on a cost.

A restoration expert will then likely provide a quote on restoration and reinstatement work for the property. This quote will then be sent to your insurer to agree on before work commences.

If you disagree with your insurer’s offer, utilise their complaints process if necessary.

When Not to Claim

There are a few reasons why claiming restoration work may not be in your best interest. Including…

  1. Policy Limits

If the damage is extensive and estimated repair costs exceed the maximum payout under your insurance policy, you may instead consider a partial claim or paying for the remaining costs yourself.

Even if repairs are underway, if the policy limit has been reached, the insurance provider might refuse to cover further costs, like alternative accommodation (AA), even if the property remains uninhabitable.

Your insurance provider will assess individual circumstances to determine if a property is truly uninhabitable or unsafe, considering factors beyond the availability of basic amenities.

  1. Lack of Coverage and Exclusions

Some policies might exclude certain types of damage, like certain events or to specific parts of the property. Be aware of any limitations or exclusions in your policy, as this may affect your ability to claim.

  1. Qualifying Repairs and Specific Schemes

Some schemes, like the Right to Repair Scheme, have specific criteria for repairs that are considered qualifying repairs.

If the damage doesn’t fall under the scheme’s definition of a qualifying repair, e.g.:

  • It’s beyond the cost limit
  • The local authority isn’t responsible

Then you won’t be able to claim under this particular scheme.

Furthermore, if the repair is considered an improvement rather than a restoration to the original condition, it might not be covered under certain schemes.

  1. Timing and Delays

When repairs take longer than expected and there are no undue delays caused by you, the insurance provider is likely to cover your alternative accommodation costs, even if the policy limit has been reached. However, if it is established that unnecessary delays were caused on your part, the insurance provider may appropriately refuse to cover additional alternative accommodation costs beyond the policy limit.

  1. Third-Party Claims or Disasters

In certain situations, property damage may occur due to factors entirely beyond your control. If a third party is responsible for the damage, pursuing a claim against them could be the most effective course of action instead of relying on insurance.

Additionally, if the property has been significantly affected by a natural disaster, considering rebuilding or renovating may be a better choice than attempting to restore it to its original state, particularly if the original structure is no longer feasible.

Need help navigating the claims process for disaster restoration?

At ServiceMaster Restore, we work closely with insurance companies to restore your property following most disasters, but if that aspect isn’t covered within your policy, we are happy to take on private cases.

No matter what disaster you’re facing, as a trusted provider for insurers across the UK, we’ll be on hand quickly to deal with the damage to your property.

Call 0845 762 6828 or 0800 021 3970 24/7 in an emergency, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

Expanding the Fleet in Swansea

A new vehicle hits the road in Swansea.

The owner of ServiceMaster Restore Swansea has expanded his fleet with the addition of a brand-new ServiceMaster Restore pickup truck.

This addition to his existing fleet of branded vehicles will allow Jamie to better serve a broad range of clients in residential and commercial properties across the area needing expert disaster restoration services.

Disaster Restoration from ServiceMaster Restore

Fire and Smoke Damage

Our expert fire and smoke damage restoration services help you return to your home or business as quickly as possible.

All our technicians are fully trained in fire mitigation, restoration and corrosion control, giving you the reassurance and results you need in a difficult situation.

Furthermore, acidic residue may continue to cause damage, even after the fire has been put out.

Even a small fire can cause dangerous smoke damage and create soot that needs expert removal to be dealt with.

Our professionals can evaluate what damaged items are salvageable and act quickly to save them.

Flood and Water Damage Restoration

All of our technicians are fully equipped to carry out professional extraction and drying processes to protect your assets and restore your property as close as possible to its prior condition.

Our top-notch equipment is also non-invasive and can be run quietly, so you don’t lose sleep while your home dries.

Leak Detection

We also carry out sophisticated leak detection services to identify water damage before it happens and stop it in its tracks, sparing you the cost and stress of dealing with damage from water in your property.

Our top-of-the-range and non-invasive equipment uses infrared cameras, acoustic sensors and moisture metres to identify a leak and check for moisture to mitigate potential damage and give you peace of mind.

Graffiti and Vandalism Restoration

Graffiti and vandalism can have a huge impact on your corporate image.

First impressions count, and an unsightly building could lead to a loss of business, a reduction in staff morale and a negative public perception

Our specialist products can remove unwanted graffiti from walls to signage, with a rapid response and effective restoration to get your property back to normal in no time.

Trauma Restoration

Whether you need to clean up blood, bodily fluids, drug paraphernalia and other biohazards, we’re here to help.

Once at a scene, we’ll evaluate the extent of the damage and when authority is given, we will immediately begin trauma scene cleanup and restoration procedures.

We sanitise, clean, and deodorise all affected areas for infectious pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis A, B and C and Tuberculosis.

Once the infectious pathogens have been eradicated, we take all steps to return the residence or business to its original state before the incident.

Mould removal and inspection

We’re here to protect you and your property from mould damage by using advanced tools to detect and effectively remove it.

If you have even the smallest suspicion that there may be mould in your property, call the experts and we’ll be here to help put you at ease.

Sanitisation, Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Services

Prevent flu or cold viruses from stopping your commercial property with ServiceMaster Restore’s comprehensive sanitisation, deep cleaning and disinfection services and products.

We carry out room and building contamination, fogging and surface sanitisation services using BDMA-qualified technicians and specialist products that meet the Emerging Pathogen Standard to be effective against many virus strains.

This includes SaniMaster, our effective sanitising and decontamination product widely used within hospitals, food preparation areas and schools to kill 99% of viruses like Cdiff, HIV and enveloped viruses

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

ServiceMaster Restore Plus caters to professionals navigating the intricacies of property claims.

Say goodbye to lengthy claims processes and say hello to being the local hero for your customers through this hassle-free add-on to your existing cover.

Our network of restoration specialists streamlines the claims process, preventing bottlenecks so that we can all be there for the people who need our support, when they need it most, with a guaranteed same-day callout for any disaster restoration work.

This offering also ensures cost efficiency through a tangible decrease in claims costs due to our proactive approach to damage mitigation.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

Whatever damages your residential or commercial property is facing, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

If you’re in Swansea and the surrounding areas, keep your eyes out for Jamie’s new truck or give him a call when you need him on 01792 439940.

Or, nationwide, we’ll be there on 0800 021 3970  in an emergency or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today for support with a range of premium disaster restoration services from your local heroes.