In August 2024, Octagon Cleaning & Restoration was contracted to restore a multi-level residential property in Portland, Maine, that had sustained catastrophic fire damage. The blaze caused the roof to collapse, leaving three floors with extensive water and mold issues. Octagon managed every phase of the project—from demolition and debris removal to mold remediation, structural drying, and weatherization—while coordinating closely with city officials, subcontractors, and the client’s bank. Despite challenges with permitting, financing, and severe weather, the property was stabilized and restored to a safe, weather-tight condition, setting the stage for future reconstruction.
Throughout the project, Octagon maintained consistent communication with the property owners, city code enforcement, subcontractors, and the client’s bank to ensure smooth progress. Regular updates, photo documentation, and detailed punch-lists kept all parties aligned and informed. This proactive coordination helped navigate challenges such as permitting delays, financing requirements, and weather disruptions, while building trust and transparency with the client.
Octagon managed every stage of on-site work, from demolition and debris removal to mold remediation and structural drying. Crews carefully removed fire-damaged materials across all three floors, stabilized the property with temporary barriers and heating units, and implemented advanced remediation techniques such as soda blasting, antimicrobial treatments, and air quality testing. Once the structure was clean and dry, the team installed new roofing, windows, and siding to restore the building to a weather-tight condition. These coordinated operations ensured the site was safe, secure, and ready for the next phase of reconstruction.
Required multiple demolition permits, asbestos testing, and code enforcement approvals.
Balancing discrepancies between original estimates, bank paperwork, and insurance requirements.
Managing asbestos testing, mold remediation, and persistent basement humidity.
Ensuring demolition crews operated safely and effectively.
Heavy rain and freezing temperatures required temporary heating, dehumidifiers, and weather barriers.
Addressing additional concerns around siding, flashing, and condensation during reconstruction.
The project was completed safely, with all demolition, remediation, and restoration work performed without major incidents. Demolition permits were successfully closed, and the property was restored to a weather-tight condition with a new roof, siding, and windows to prevent further water damage. Structural drying and antimicrobial treatments effectively controlled mold and moisture, reducing long-term risks. Throughout the process, Octagon provided detailed invoices, certifications, and documentation to support financing, while regular written updates built trust and kept the owners fully informed at every stage.
The client expressed concerns about condensation and siding finishes toward the end of the project, but Octagon worked closely with them to explain environmental factors, document conditions, and recommend solutions such as heating and dehumidification. Key takeaways included the importance of clear, ongoing communication, adaptive project management to address unexpected hazards and delays, and Octagon’s ability to deliver end-to-end service—from permitting and demolition to final restoration—ensuring the property was stabilized and ready for future reconstruction.
This Portland fire restoration project showcased how Octagon Restoration and Octagon Construction work seamlessly together to manage complex recoveries. Octagon Restoration handled the structural drying, demolition, debris removal, and mold remediation, while Octagon Construction completed exterior reconstruction, including new windows, roof replacement, and siding repairs on the third floor. The coordinated effort resulted in a stabilized, weather-tight structure that met code and was ready for its next phase. Although the interior was left unfinished for the new owner to rebuild, the project stands as a strong example of Octagon’s precision, communication, and collaboration in restoring both properties and peace of mind.
In August 2024, a multilevel residential property in Portland, Maine, suffered a devastating fire that resulted in extensive structural damage. In addition to the fire destruction, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and subsequent mold growth created urgent restoration needs. Comprehensive repair and remediation were required to return the home to a safe and livable condition.
Our commitment to excellent service and customer satisfaction shows in everything we do, and it’s the reason we continue to be a top choice for homeowners, insurance professionals, corporations and property management firms throughout Northern New England. We provide water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, asbestos and lead abatement, and commercial air duct cleaning.
