How do I find out how a restoration company stores contents of fire-damaged homes?

Go to the place itself. Look at how the space is secured, who has access, and whether items from different homes are kept apart and labelled clearly. Notice the condition: is it dry, clean and orderly, or crowded and damp? Fire-damaged goods carry smoke and soot, so ask how the company keeps them from contaminating other items.

Then follow the paper. Ask to see the inventory process for a recent job: itemized lists with photos, tags matched to each home, and sign-offs on pickup and return. A strong system lets any employee find a specific item quickly. Check how long items usually sit and who decides when they are cleaned, returned or disposed of.

Finally, ask about problems. Have items gone missing or been damaged in storage? How did the company respond, and what did the insurer say? Ask your insurance adviser whether the coverage fits the exposure, and check whether storage is in a leased building, since the lease may or may not move with the sale. Your lawyer should read it. Ask who is responsible if something is damaged while in the company’s care, and how that is recorded. Your insurer can say what documentation it expects.

Key takeaways

• Inspect the storage space for security, condition and separation of homes.
• Follow one recent job from pickup to return.
• Ask about losses, damage claims and how they were resolved.
• Check whether the storage lease transfers.