Estimating smoke damage to a single-family house can be a challenging task, as the extent of the damage can vary depending on several factors such as the type of fire, the materials that burned, and the ventilation in the house. However, here are some general steps that can help you estimate smoke damage to a single-family house:
1. Assess the extent of the fire damage: Before estimating smoke damage, it's essential to assess the extent of the fire damage to the house. Look for structural damage, such as burnt walls, ceilings, floors, and roof. If the fire department was involved, they would have a detailed report of the damages that you can use as a reference.
2. Inspect the affected areas: Inspect the affected areas for soot and smoke damage. Smoke can penetrate deeply into the walls, carpets, furniture, and other materials in the house, leaving behind an unpleasant odor and discoloration. Be sure to check all rooms and surfaces thoroughly, including the attic, basement, and crawl spaces.
3. Identify the type of smoke damage: There are different types of smoke damage, and identifying the type is essential in estimating the extent of the damage. For example, wet smoke is sticky and smeary, and it can be challenging to remove. Dry smoke is powdery and easier to clean, but it can leave behind a strong odor.
4. Assess the ventilation system: The ventilation system in the house can significantly impact the extent of smoke damage. If the system was running during the fire, it could spread smoke and soot throughout the house. Additionally, if the filters were not changed recently, they may be clogged with smoke and debris, reducing their effectiveness. I had a high rise fire in Chicago some years back where the ventilation system changed it from a 1 unit claim to a 20 story claim.
5. Consult a professional. Obviously, you are one of the professionals here but don't be too proud to go it alone if it goes above your head. Estimating smoke damage to a single-family house can be challenging, and it's always a good idea to consult a professional. A smoke damage restoration company or a building consultant can help you identify the extent of the damage and develop a plan to restore the house to its pre-loss condition. Make sure you talk with the carrier about getting the proper referral for this.
6. Consider the cost: Once you have identified the extent of the damage, you can estimate the cost of the restoration. The cost will depend on the severity of the damage, the materials that need to be replaced, and the amount of labor required to restore the house.
In conclusion, estimating smoke damage to a single-family house requires a comprehensive assessment of the extent of the fire damage, the affected areas, the type of smoke damage, the ventilation system, and the cost. Don't be afraid to get extra assistance on this. It can be helpful in developing an accurate estimate and restoring the house to its pre-loss condition.
Special preview on here. The two biggest lies in adjusting. Credit to Paul Strauss for coming up with the phrase "2 big lies".
I'm cross posting this one on Youtube. It's the lighter content so we'll move forward doing it this way.
I wasn't exactly sure how to address this....and the best way seemed to be facing it head on. So my business recently changed in a big way because I went from being a parent to being a parent of a special needs child. I know I'm not alone so I'm going to explore as a sort of specific series, how you manage your independent adjusting business while parenting a special needs child. That's part 1.
Tornadoes: Skip ahead to 4:40 to discuss the current tornadoes.
Part II - So we have a ton of tornadoes. What is unique about tornado event adjusting and what separates it from most other Cat events? I'll drop some tips in here.
More strategy sessions coming soon, I promise. The challenge right now is I'm in the middle of prepping for the bar exam. Yep, that monster. I'll get back to you when this torture is over.
Hey folks, I'm seeing a growing number of questions less on how you make money during a cat because let's face it, that's the easy part. More people are asking how you make money BETWEEN cats. I'm putting together something on that to help you out so you don't blow all your cat money on waiting for another cat.
Ok...I promise you I did not plan to go to Ida, but when I heard about its impact I kind of had to. I'm glad I did. It was my biggest storm ever in 16 years. There isn't even a close second. It would have been even bigger had I stayed longer but I have commitments here and I had to set boundaries. Some of you made some money and some wish they had made more. Let's make a plan on how to get you into my position, where sometime in the next 16 years (hopefully sooner) you have the biggest storm of your career that shifts your mentality entirely BUT until that storm comes you're still making a good living.
This Sunday the topic will be "Now What?" I will need your feedback before then to make this the best video possible. Reply here and tell me where you're at and where you want to be. Let's start planning your success.
