Fire Damage

Illustration of a house on fire with flames coming out of the windows.

Fire & Smoke Damage: Recovering After the Unthinkable in Northern Ireland

A fire at your home or business is more than a physical disaster; it’s a deeply traumatic event. The visible destruction – charred structures, ruined belongings – is only part of the story. Never underestimate fire. Its aftermath involves pervasive smoke, corrosive soot, toxic residues, and often significant water damage from firefighting efforts. Even a small, contained fire can cause devastating smoke damage throughout your entire property, compromising air quality, electronics, and unseen structural elements.

Why Fire Damage Requires Expert Assessment:

  • Hidden Hazards & Damage: Soot is corrosive and penetrates deeply into materials. Toxic residues linger. Heat can weaken structural components (steel, concrete, timber joists) without obvious signs. Water used to extinguish the fire creates secondary damage and mould risk.

  • Complexity of Loss: Fire claims involve assessing not just structural damage, but often total loss of contents, demolition costs, specialist cleaning (deodorisation, soot removal), temporary accommodation, code compliance upgrades during rebuild, and business interruption (if applicable).

  • Underinsurance Risk: The sheer scale of rebuilding to current standards and replacing contents is frequently underestimated by policyholders. A thorough, expert assessment is vital to avoid underinsurance penalties.

  • Emotional Toll: Navigating complex insurance procedures while dealing with the emotional impact is overwhelming. You need an advocate focused solely on your recovery.

Interior of a burnt building with charred debris, burned wood, and scattered belongings such as cloth and cardboard.
A kitchen window with broken and shattered glass, covered in soot and dirt. The surrounding area is cluttered with burnt and charred household items and debris.
Charred debris and a burnt fence next to a house corner, with some tools and a green garbage bin in the background.
A kitchen that has been smoke damaged and partially burned, with the ceiling charred and peeling, and soot on the walls above the tiled backsplash. Items on the countertop include cleaning supplies, a microwave, a kettle, and papers, and a washing machine is visible under the counter. The window is open, allowing light into the room.
Upward view of a burnt roof with charred wooden beams and blackened walls in a fire-damaged room, with toolboxes and miscellaneous items on a concrete surface.

At CMS, we understand the urgency and sensitivity of these situations. We are here to be your trusted partner, guiding you through the complexities of the insurance claim process with compassion and expertise.

Why Choose CMS After a Fire?

  • Comprehensive Assessment: Our experienced loss assessors meticulously evaluate all damage – not just the obvious fire destruction, but also pervasive smoke damage, potential structural weakening, and hidden effects often missed by the untrained eye.

  • Full Claim Management: We lead you through the entire claim, ensuring a thorough assessment forms the basis for a fair settlement covering full reinstatement of your property and contents.

  • Expert Negotiation: We handle negotiations with your insurance company, ensuring your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

  • Personalised Support: You receive dedicated, compassionate guidance every step of the way, reducing stress during a difficult time.

Don't face the aftermath alone. Trust CMS Loss Assessors to secure the comprehensive settlement you deserve to recover and rebuild.

Contact us.

We are dedicated to helping you. To arrange an appointment, or to find out more information on how we can assist, give us a call or fill out our callback form below:

Call one of our helpful staff members below:

 

Or call down to our office at:

42 Bridge Street, Strabane, Tyrone, BT82 9AE