First steps after a fire or storm, and what cleaning and restoration can achieve.
Only re-enter when emergency services say it is safe. Avoid touching soot-covered surfaces or switching on affected electrical equipment. Photograph damage when safe, contact your insurer and arrange a professional assessment.
Many smoke-affected surfaces and contents can be cleaned, but the method depends on the material and extent of damage. A restoration assessment can identify what can be cleaned and what may need repair or replacement.
Soot and smoke residue are acidic. The longer they sit, the more they stain and corrode surfaces such as paint, metal, stone and fabrics. Early professional cleaning improves the chance of saving surfaces and contents.
Wiping soot with water or household cleaners often smears it and pushes it further into the surface. It is better to leave soot-covered surfaces alone until they have been assessed, as different residues need different cleaning methods.
Stay away from fallen power lines and unstable structures. If there is active water entry, move people and valuables away from the affected area only if safe, take photos, contact your insurer and call NRN for restoration help.
For emergency help with a damaged roof, a fallen tree or rising floodwater, call your State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies call 000. NRN helps with the water extraction, drying and restoration inside the property.
Yes. Floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals and debris, and can hide hazards such as live electrical equipment. Avoid contact where you can, wear protective clothing if you must enter, wash your hands well afterwards, and treat anything it has touched as contaminated until cleaned.
Speak with the NRN team any time. For an emergency, calling is the fastest way to get help.
Our technicians are on call 24/7 and can be on-site within the hour. Tell us what happened and we'll call you straight back.
1300 050 565