How To Choose Fire Restoration And Board-Up Services In Houston
After a fire, the right restoration company protects your home and your claim. Here's what the work includes and how to choose well.
Free and independent. Some partners pay us, which never affects our guides. How we make money.
The Short Answer
- Board up fast. Most policies expect you to prevent more damage.
- You choose the company, not your insurer.
- Never sign over your insurance check.
Emergency Board-Up: Why It Can't Wait
An open, damaged home invites theft, weather damage and squatters. Most policies expect you to stop more damage. Board-up is usually covered.
- Board up broken windows and doors.
- Tarp any holes in the roof.
- Photograph everything before and after.
- Keep every receipt.
What Fire Restoration Includes
- Inspection: the company walks through and writes up the damage.
- Securing the property: board-up, tarps and fencing.
- Water removal: firefighting water can cause mold within days.
- Smoke and soot cleanup: walls, ceilings, air ducts and belongings.
- Odor removal: air scrubbers, ozone or hydroxyl machines.
- Rebuilding: drywall, flooring, cabinets, paint and more.
Smoke And Soot Cleanup
Smoke gets into places you can't see: air ducts, insulation, cabinets and clothing. Soot can stain surfaces permanently if it's cleaned the wrong way. Don't scrub soot with water or household cleaners before a professional looks at it. Ask the company how they'll clean the air ducts and remove the odor. Covering it up isn't enough.
Contents Cleaning And Pack-Out
In a pack-out, a company boxes up your things. It cleans them and stores them until your home is ready. Ask for a written inventory of every box, with photos. That list also helps your insurance claim.
Questions To Ask Before You Sign A Contract
- Are you licensed and insured? Can I see proof?
- Do you have local references and reviews?
- Will you give me a written, itemized estimate?
- Who pulls the permits from the Houston Permitting Center?
- How and when do you get paid? (Avoid large upfront payments.)
- Will you work directly with my insurance adjuster?
- What's the timeline, and what happens if it slips?
Never sign over your insurance check. Don't sign anything that gives a company control of your claim.
Contact the Houston Permitting Center to confirm which repairs need permits.
Does Insurance Pay For Restoration?
Most homeowners policies cover fire restoration, subject to your deductible and limits. You can choose your own restoration company. You don't have to use the one your insurer suggests. Send your adjuster the company's estimate and make sure both agree on the scope before work starts.
Want help choosing a restoration company?
Answer a few questions and we'll show you every option, including vetted local companies.
Common Questions
How long does fire restoration take?
Smoke cleanup can take days to weeks. Rebuilding after major damage can take months, depending on permits, materials and your insurance claim.
Do I have to use my insurance company's restoration contractor?
No. You can choose your own. Get the scope and price in writing and share it with your adjuster.