A fire in your home or business is one of the most traumatic events you can go through. Even a small fire can leave behind lasting damage — from smoke stains and lingering odors to soaked walls and ruined belongings. If you’re reading this, you’ve either just experienced a fire or want to be prepared. Either way, we’re here to help.
At Octagon Cleaning & Restoration, we’ve helped hundreds of families and business owners across Maine and New Hampshire recover after a fire. Here’s what you need to know — and what to do first — to move forward safely.
How to Clean Up Smoke Damage After a Fire
Step 1: Don’t Re-Enter Until It’s Safe
If the fire department was called, wait until they give you the all-clear before going back in. Even if the fire looks out, hidden dangers may remain:
- Hot spots or smoldering materials
- Compromised electrical systems
- Structural damage (like weakened floors or ceilings)
When in doubt, wait for professionals to inspect the scene.
Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company Immediately
Whether it’s your home or business, get in touch with your insurance carrier as soon as possible. They’ll walk you through next steps and assign a claims adjuster.
For homeowners:
Ask if you have Loss of Use coverage — this can help pay for:
- Temporary housing (like a hotel)
- Replacement clothing and toiletries
- Food and living expenses while your home is being restored
Step 3: Document the Damage
Once it’s safe to enter, walk through every room and take photos or videos. Create a list of:
- Damaged items
- Areas affected by fire, smoke, or water
- Anything that looks out of place or smells off
You’ll need this list for your insurance claim — and it will help your restoration team prioritize cleanup.
Step 4: Call a Professional Fire Restoration Company
Fire damage doesn’t stop when the flames go out. In fact, some of the worst damage happens after the fire:
- Smoke can discolor walls and ceilings within hours
- Soot settles into porous materials and causes corrosion
- Water used to fight the fire can lead to mold growth
That’s why timing is everything. The sooner a certified restoration company gets on-site, the better your chances of salvaging property, saving money, and shortening the recovery process.
What Octagon Cleaning & Restoration Can Do for You
Our IICRC-certified team helps with every step of fire recovery, including:
Fire Damage Cleanup
Removing debris, burned materials, and stabilizing damaged areas
Smoke & Odor Removal
Using HEPA filtration and odor-neutralizing treatments to eliminate lingering smells
Water Damage Remediation
Drying soaked areas, removing mold risk, and cleaning structural materials
Insurance Support
We work directly with your adjuster to simplify the claim process
Pack-Out Services
We’ll safely pack and store salvageable belongings while restoration is underway
Common Questions About Fire Recovery
Q: How soon should I call a restoration company after a fire?
A: As soon as the fire department clears the site. Smoke, soot, and water can all cause damage within hours, so fast action is key.
Q: Can I clean up fire damage myself?
A: Minor surface cleanup is okay, but deeper restoration should be left to professionals. Soot and smoke can be toxic, and using the wrong cleaner can make things worse.
Q: How long does fire damage restoration take?
A: It depends on the extent of the damage. Some jobs take a few days, others can last several weeks — especially if rebuilding is involved. We provide a full timeline and stay in touch every step of the way.
Q: Does insurance pay for fire damage cleanup?
A: In most cases, yes. Homeowners and commercial property insurance typically cover fire, smoke, and water damage — including professional restoration.
What to Look for in a Fire Restoration Partner
Not all companies are created equal. Look for a team that:
- Is certified by the IICRC
- Offers emergency response
- Handles both smoke and water cleanup
- Works directly with your insurance company
At Octagon, we check all of the above — and we treat your home like it’s our own.
Recovering from Fire? Call Octagon Today
Fire damage can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. With years of experience across Maine and New Hampshire, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process — from the first call to final inspection. Contact us to get help fast.
Let’s get your life — and your space — back on track.
