When disaster strikes, panic is natural—but knowing what to do after a house fire can help you take back control. Fires are traumatic, but recovery is possible with the right steps and expert help.

At Glory Disaster Restoration Services, we are IICRC-certified and specialize in helping families and business owners in Maryland, DC, and Virginia restore their properties safely and quickly.

Step 1: What to Do After a House Fire – Prioritize Safety

The most important step after any house fire is ensuring everyone is safe. Get medical attention for any injuries or smoke inhalation. If you’re not sure whether your home is structurally safe, don’t go inside until firefighters or a certified professional say it’s okay.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Provider After a Fire

As soon as possible, call your insurance company to begin your fire damage claim. Ask what’s covered and what documentation you’ll need. Take photos or videos of the damage if it’s safe to do so.

 Step 3: Don’t Re-Enter Until Cleared

Even small fires can weaken walls, floors, and electrical systems. One of the most important things in what to do after a house fire is not to re-enter without professional clearance. The risk of collapse or toxic exposure is real.

what to do after a house fire

Step 4: Call an IICRC-Certified Fire Damage Restoration Company

Fires don’t just burn—they leave behind smoke damage, soot, and health hazards. A certified fire restoration team like Glory Disaster Restoration offers:

  • 24/7 emergency fire damage cleanup

  • Smoke odor and soot removal

  • Structural drying and deodorizing

  • Air quality control and purification

  • Full fire damage restoration

  • Insurance claim support

We are proudly IICRC-certified, meaning we follow the gold standard in fire damage restoration. You can trust us to handle your home with expertise and care.

Step 5: Save All Receipts and Track Expenses

If you’re displaced, save receipts for hotels, food, clothing, and personal items. These may be reimbursable through your homeowner’s insurance policy. Keep a folder of everything related to your fire damage claim.

Step 6: Begin the Fire Restoration Process

The next step in what to do after a house fire is restoration. This includes removing damaged materials, cleaning surfaces, repairing structural issues, and improving ventilation. Our team uses professional-grade equipment to get your home back to pre-fire condition.

what to do after a house fire

Step 7: Prevent Future Fires

Install smoke alarms in every room, replace batteries regularly, and create a family fire escape plan. Taking preventive measures reduces future risk—and insurance premiums.

Let God’s Glory Disaster Restoration Help You Recover

Dealing with a fire is tough—but you don’t have to do it alone. God’s Glory Disaster Restoration Services is here to guide you through every step of recovery.

📍 Serving Maryland, DC, and Virginia
📞 Call us 24/7 at (301) 809-4586
📅 Or Book a Fire Cleanup Appointment Now