Property managers typically have a lot of responsibilities and duties to take care of in the aftermath of a fire. They are knowledgeable and professional experts in this area and can guide property owners.
1. Consider the potential dangers
A fire can cause a lot of damage and leave wreckage in its wake. If someone’s home is in this state, they must be careful to avoid any hazardous conditions lingering.
2. Thoroughly clean the premises
Workers must wear protective equipment when it is time to clean up the mess a fire has made. They should also remove all ignition sources from the area, including electric power, and turn off gas lines if any gas appliances on the property have been impacted by water damage or other problems due to the fire. They should clean up all the smoke and soot using proper cleaning products. They should also clean up the smoke damage on appliances and other surfaces. Finally, they should sanitize everything with an antimicrobial cleaner before restoring the property to its former use.
3. Leave the premises undisturbed
Property managers may want to begin work soon after a fire, especially when they may have a lot of renters waiting on their properties. They can set up shop in temporary space while working with insurance companies and contractors. However, upon entering the property, workers must take time to ensure that all of their belongings are removed from the area and that nothing is left behind that could cause harm or damage if it is disturbed or moved into place. If the property is empty, nothing may be left on the premises that could cause injury or damage. However, if it is complete, they should always clear and check the property before they begin working on repairs or renovations.
4. Control access to the property
Even after a property has been cleaned up and cleared out, people may still be coming onto the property to see if any damage was done or for other reasons. Therefore, it is essential that managers control who has access to the property. They can use any lockable device, such as a fence gate or even a locked door, to control access and let them know who has been permitted to enter.
5. Identify the insurance claim
Property owners should contact their insurance company as soon as possible to discuss what claims may be made. Although some of these claims may be covered, others will typically not be covered or only partially covered by the insurance company. It can create challenges for property managers who need to handle the claims process independently.
6. Close out open accounts
As soon as possible, they need to close all open positions, especially those filled with applicants or workers in the past who still need to complete their work. If there is any evidence of fraud or other illegal activity, it will negatively impact the ability of property managers to collect from customers and investors.
Property managers must handle all of the details related to a fire as quickly and safely as possible. They should receive the necessary training to help them manage the situations with care and responsibility.
