Fire Damage Restoration Process

SERVPRO® of Douglas & Otter Tail Counties responds to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day, every day of the year in Alexandria, often arriving as the first responders leave the scene.



Upon arrival, we will assess the damage and immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. We will tarp and board up any areas exposed to the elements, secure the structure, and treat your property and belongings with special care.



Our fire restoration technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. We can provide a full range of specialty cleaning and restoration services to return smoke and fire-damaged property to preloss condition quickly and efficiently.



SERVPRO® of Douglas & Otter Tail Counties can also supervise a full range of reconstruction and building services so that you will have one convenient point of contact throughout the entire restoration process. No matter how big the job is, Alexandria residents can count on us to restore fire damage to pre-fire condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call Today – (320) 219-6505

Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action. 

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.