Hey there, it's TJ from Sanctified Homes. Today, I'm sharing an unfortunate experience from one of our rental properties that recently suffered fire damage. I hope that by walking you through the aftermath, you'll gain insights into the importance of fire safety and prevention for your properties.

The Initial Shock: Assessing the Damage

Walking into the property post-fire was a sobering experience. The once-familiar spaces were now marred by soot, charred walls, and the unmistakable scent of burnt materials. The most significant damage was in the upstairs bedroom, where the fire originated. The soffit was hanging down, a grim reminder of the fire's intensity.

However, the damage wasn't just limited to the fire's origin point. The water used to douse the flames caused its own set of problems. Water damage is often a silent accomplice to fire damage, causing issues that can sometimes surpass the initial fire damage in terms of repair costs and long-term structural concerns.

The Importance of Closed Doors

One of the most striking observations from this incident was the role of closed doors in containing the fire. The bedroom door, which was closed during the fire, acted as a barrier, preventing the flames from spreading rapidly. This simple act of having the door closed potentially saved other parts of the house from extensive damage.

The difference was clear when comparing the charred back of the door to its relatively untouched front. This serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of closing doors, especially at night or when you're not home. It's a simple step that can make a significant difference in the event of a fire.

Recovery and Restoration

Recovering from such an incident is a multi-step process. From assessing the structural integrity of the property to dealing with insurance claims, the journey can be long and arduous. Here are a few steps we're taking:

• Professional Assessment: Before any restoration work begins, it's essential to get a professional assessment of the damage. This helps in understanding the extent of the damage and planning the next steps.

• Water Damage Control: As mentioned earlier, water damage can be a silent destroyer. It's crucial to address this promptly to prevent mold growth and further structural issues.

• Restoration Work: This involves repairing the damaged parts of the property, which can range from patching up walls to more extensive structural repairs.

Tips for Property Owners

If you own rental properties, here are some tips to ensure the safety of your tenants and your property:

• Regularly Check Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms are functional and tested regularly. This can provide early warnings in case of a fire.

• Educate Tenants: Make sure your tenants are aware of fire safety protocols, including the importance of closing doors.

• Insurance: Ensure that your property is adequately insured to cover potential damages from unforeseen incidents like fires.

Final Thoughts

While the aftermath of a fire can be devastating, with the right precautions and awareness, we can minimize risks and ensure the safety of our properties and tenants. Always remember to raise your standard in every aspect of property management. Stay safe out there!

For more insights on property management and building safety, check out our Blessed to Build blog and our YouTube channel.