Fire Damaged House

[Justin Silverio]

I'm going to look at a fire damaged house tomorrow night. I spoke with the homeowner and he said someone from the insurance company took a look at the damage and said the 1st floor would be a complete gut rehab and the second floor wasn't in too bad of shape. I guess the tin ceilings helped to keep the fire from spreading to the second floor.

Since I've never rehabbed a house with fire damage, what are the additional issues/expenses that I'll need to consider? Looking at previous posts, people were saying that the town will usually be involved in the process. Also, how do I get rid of the smell?

[George P.]

Ask how much the insurance company will pay for the damages. This should give you an guesstimate of what it might cost to rehab.

Some insurance companies pay directly to the contractors so that the property owner won't be able to collect from insurance company and sell before making any repairs.

Have a professional inspect the structure before the closing.