When a house fire strikes, it’s devastating. Beyond the immediate fear and shock, homeowners are left asking, “What do I do next?”

The truth is, the hours and days right after a fire are the most critical for your safety, your home’s restoration, and your insurance claim.

At First Response Water & Mold Removal, we understand how overwhelming this can feel.  That’s why we’ve created this guide to answer the most common questions people search for after a fire. Whether you’re in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, or Port Charlotte, our team is here 24/7 with a 30-minute response time to help you recover quickly.

1. Immediate Safety After a Fire

Is my house safe to enter after a fire?

Never re-enter until the fire department confirms it’s safe. Fire damage often weakens floors, walls, and roofs, while lingering smoke and toxins can cause serious health problems.

Who should I call first after a house fire?

• Fire Department – confirm the fire is completely out.
• Insurance Company – start your claim right away.
• Licensed Fire Damage Restoration Company – professionals can board up your home, secure belongings, and begin cleanup.

What should I do in the first 24 hours?

• Take photos and videos of all the damage before starting the cleanup.
• Save receipts for temporary housing and essentials (insurance may reimburse).
• Do not turn on gas, electricity, or water until instructed to do so by professionals.

2. Insurance & Financial Recovery

Does homeowners' insurance cover fire damage?

Most policies cover:

• Fire and smoke damage
• Water damage from firefighting
• Additional living expenses if you can’t stay in your home

Always review your policy or speak directly with your agent to confirm details.

How do I file a fire damage insurance claim?

• Contact your insurer immediately.
• Provide documentation (photos, videos, receipts).
• Request a copy of the fire department report.
• Work with your restoration company — they can create a detailed estimate for your insurance adjuster.

Can FEMA or local programs help?

If your fire was part of a widespread disaster, FEMA may provide assistance. Otherwise, local charities, churches, and community programs can often help with essentials. https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

3. Cleaning & Fire Damage Restoration

Can I clean fire damage myself?

Minor soot stains may be manageable, but smoke and water damage require professional restoration. Attempting DIY cleanup often pushes soot deeper into surfaces, making odor removal nearly impossible.

How do you remove smoke odor from a house?

Professionals use:

• Ozone treatment to neutralize odor molecules
• HEPA air scrubbers for airborne particles
• Specialized cleaning solutions for walls, ceilings, and furniture
  

Who does fire cleanup in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples & Port Charlotte?

First Response Water & Mold Removal is locally based and offers:

• 24/7 emergency fire damage cleanup
• 30-minute response time
• Certified technicians who handle smoke, soot, and water damage together

4. Health & Safety Concerns

Is it safe to live in a smoke-damaged house?

No. Lingering smoke and soot contain carcinogens and toxins that can trigger asthma, respiratory illness, and other long-term health issues.

Can fire damage lead to mold?

Yes. Water from firefighting can soak into walls, floors, and ceilings, creating hidden moisture that breeds mold within 24–48 hours. Addressing both fire and water damage at once is critical.

Is my food safe after a fire?

Any food, canned or boxed, that’s been exposed to smoke, heat, or firefighting chemicals should be discarded. Safety comes first.

5. Rebuilding & Moving Forward

How long does fire damage restoration take?

• Minor smoke cleanup: a few days
• Moderate fire & water damage: 2–4 weeks
• Major structural repairs: several months

Every case is unique, but having a professional team ensures the process moves faster and safer.

Should I repair or rebuild after a house fire?

This depends on the severity of the damage and your insurance coverage. A licensed restoration company can provide an inspection and guide you on the most cost-effective option.

How do I find temporary housing after a fire?

• Many homeowners' insurance policies cover hotels or rental homes under “loss of use”.
• The Red Cross and local organizations also provide assistance for displaced families.

Conclusion: Recovering After a Fire Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

A fire in your home can feel like the end of everything, but with the right team on your side, recovery is possible. Acting quickly and working with professionals ensures your home is safe, clean, and restored — while easing the insurance process along the way.

If you’ve experienced a fire in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, or Port Charlotte, don’t wait. Call First Response Water & Mold Removal at 239-365-MOLD for 24/7 emergency fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Disasters Don’t Wait — Neither Do We.