Domestic Rental Property Renovation
22/10/2024
Domestic Rental Property Renovation
Following our call out to this domestic rental property for one of our commercial loss adjustors, we found this to be a 2 storey, 2 bedroomed, end of terrace, brick-built cottage. Upon arrival, we conducted a thorough inspection of the property and listed our findings as per the below:
- Fire Damage: The kitchen exhibited substantial damage with charred surfaces, destroyed appliances, and compromised structural elements.
- Smoke and Odour Damage: Smoke had infiltrated walls, ceilings, and furnishings throughout leaving the property inhabitable.
- Impact on Tenancy: Given the extent of the damage, the tenant was relocated to alternative accommodation for the duration of restoration work.
To address the damages we carried out a risk assessment and suitable H&S matters put into place. We designed a comprehensive response plan to ensure a quick turnaround meaning minimum disruption to the tenant and the letting agent. A detailed report & initial costings were presented to the managing adjuster.
- Initial Strip Out: All fire-damaged materials, including kitchen fixtures and affected furnishings, were removed to facilitate restoration.
- Smoke and Odour Remediation: Advanced techniques, including thermal fogging and ozone treatment, were employed to eliminate residual smoke odours.
- Structural Repairs: Assessment of structural integrity was conducted, and necessary repairs were made to ensure safety and compliance with building regulations.
- Restoration and Renovation: Once the property was cleared and treated, renovation efforts commenced, including the installation of new kitchen fixtures, decorating works, and replacement floor coverings.
During our strip-out and decontamination cleaning works we installed a HEPA filter air scrubber to control the soot particles and further left this running to capture any airborne particulates to eliminate any settlement dust throughout the property. We carried out a decontamination clean to the full property including walls, ceilings, skirtings, architraves, doors, and windows. Once the clean was complete our specialist Ozone regeneration machine was utilised to ensure any remaining odour was eliminated prior to re-instatement.
Smoke had penetrated upstairs directly above the kitchen into the bathroom where evidence of soot and smoke deposits had come through slight gapping in the safety vinyl flooring. This required removal, cleaning restoration and replacement. The landing above also had smoke penetrating through the floorboards into the backing of the carpet and underlay which required removing, safely disposing of, cleaning restoration and replacement.
Due to the smoke and odour damage throughout the property, redecoration was required to the entire property to ensure any lasting scent was removed. We carried out a sparkle clean prior to handing the property back to the letting agent.
The restoration project was completed successfully and within the planned timeline. The property was returned to a habitable condition, with all fire and smoke damage fully addressed. The tenant was able to move back in, and the letting agent reported a smooth transition back to normal operations. The landlord also commented on the quality of workmanship and communication provided throughout.
This case highlights the importance of swift assessment and action in response to domestic fire damage. By coordinating closely with the letting agent and ensuring thorough remediation and restoration, we were able to minimise disruption for the tenant and restore the property to its former state, demonstrating our commitment to effective loss management.
What our clients say...
Thank you for what was a smooth transition from what was a major disruption to the school until completion of the works required before the pupils returned. I cannot fault you on the communication levels I had received throughout and the quality of works that you and the whole team involved provided. Fantastic level of service, keep it up.
Head teacher of a school recently refurbed following a burst pipe
Just want to say how quick, professional and thorough I found your service to be. Thanks for your help!
Manager of a commercial store recently refurbed following storm damage
It was a pleasure walking through the property, the standard of finish and quality of works throughout was excellent. The property was spotless from top to bottom. Although my input was limited to Project Monitoring your office kept me regularly updated on progress without the need to chase, I would have no hesitation in using AJS Services directly or passing on me comments/feedback on evidence of this morning. Thankyou one again and please feel free to forward this E-Mail to any of your present or future clients.