Restoration referrals are for the recovery stage. For an active fire, immediate danger or a medical emergency, leave the area and call 911.
Emergency response comes first
Check with the fire department before re-entering a damaged property. A restoration referral is not permission to enter and is not an emergency-response service. The U.S. Fire Administration has an after-fire recovery guide linked below.
Describe more than the burned area
Tell the call recipient which rooms were involved, where you have noticed smoke residue or odors, and whether water was used to extinguish the fire. Mention access restrictions and whether the property is occupied. The provider needs to assess the actual condition; a telephone description cannot establish that a building is safe.
Ask for a room-by-room scope
Ask what the proposed work includes for surfaces, belongings and damaged materials. Find out whether contents inventory, packing, storage, disposal and return are part of the quote or billed separately. If an item has sentimental value, flag it before giving permission to discard it.
Understand the boundaries of the quote
Smoke cleanup, water drying and rebuilding may involve different scopes or companies. Ask who will perform each part, how changes are documented, and what follow-up is included if an odor concern remains. Do not assume an initial cleanup agreement includes reconstruction or replacement of possessions.
Keep your decisions documented
When safe, keep a record of affected rooms and conversations. Ask your insurer directly about its documentation requirements and your specific policy; this site cannot determine coverage or approve a claim. Request written prices and authorization terms from the service provider before work begins.
Common questions
Is this a fire emergency number?
No. Call 911 for an active fire or immediate danger. This number is for restoration referral inquiries after the emergency response.
Will a provider arrive immediately?
Arrival time and appointment availability must be confirmed with the recipient. We do not promise dispatch, a specific response time or continuous availability.
Further reading
U.S. Fire Administration: After a home fire. General safety information; it does not verify a recipient's qualifications or local availability.
Prepare for your call
Use the restoration call checklist to compare the proposed scope, charges and next steps.
Immediate danger? Call 911 for an active fire, life-threatening situation or medical emergency. This is a restoration referral line, not emergency dispatch.