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Branch Brook Dry-Out ProsWater Damage Help · Newark, NJ

How Is Fire Damage in a Multi-Story Building Handled?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

First Steps After a Fire

The first step is making sure the building is safe to enter. Local fire officials and building inspectors decide when it is safe for anyone to go back inside. Until then, the pros wait and prepare their plan. You should not re-enter until officials say it is okay, even if the fire looks contained.

Once access is allowed, the pros do a quick walkthrough of every floor to see the extent of the damage. They look for structural weaknesses, broken windows, and areas where water from fire hoses has pooled. This walkthrough helps them decide what equipment and materials are needed for the cleanup and repair work ahead.

Managing Water and Structural Risks

Firefighting water can cause as much damage as the fire itself. The pros use pumps and wet vacuums to remove standing water from floors and stairwells. They also set up drying equipment to pull moisture out of walls, carpets, and wood framing. The goal is to prevent mold and further rot before repairs begin.

Structural damage from fire can weaken floors, beams, and load-bearing walls. The pros may bring in temporary supports to hold things in place while they work. They also check for hazards like exposed wiring or damaged gas lines. If they find any, they call in the right trades, such as an electrician or a plumber, to handle those specific dangers.

  • Remove standing water from each floor
  • Set up industrial fans and dehumidifiers
  • Shore up weakened floors and beams
  • Inspect for electrical and gas hazards
  • Seal off unaffected areas to limit smoke spread

Cleaning Smoke and Soot

Smoke and soot travel far beyond the fire's origin, often reaching upper floors and even adjoining units. The pros use specialized cleaning agents to wipe down walls, ceilings, and hard surfaces. They also clean or replace HVAC filters to stop soot from circulating through the building.

Textiles like curtains, upholstery, and carpets may hold smoke odor. The pros use ozone treatments or thermal fogging to neutralize odors at the source. In some cases, items are too damaged to save, and they are removed safely. You should ask about what can be cleaned versus what needs to be thrown away, as it depends on the material and the level of exposure.

Repairing Each Floor

Repairs happen floor by floor, starting with the most damaged areas. Fire-damaged drywall, insulation, and wood are torn out and replaced. The pros also repair or replace any electrical wiring that melted or shorted. They coordinate with local inspectors to ensure all work meets building codes.

Water-damaged areas from firefighting may need new subflooring, drywall, or paint. The pros match materials and finishes so the repaired areas blend with the rest of the building. They also check for hidden moisture in wall cavities, which can lead to mold if left untreated. The extent of repairs depends on how long the fire burned and how much water was used.

  • Replace fire-damaged drywall and insulation
  • Rewire electrical systems where needed
  • Install new subflooring and carpet
  • Repaint walls and ceilings
  • Treat moisture inside wall cavities

Working with Your Insurance

Your insurance policy may cover fire damage cleanup and repairs, but it depends on your specific plan. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. You should document the damage with photos and a written list of affected items. Keep receipts for any temporary housing or emergency repairs.

The pros can help you document the damage for your claim, but they do not handle your insurance directly. You will need to file the claim yourself and work with your adjuster. If you live in Newark, keep a copy of your policy and a list of your possessions in a safe place. This makes the claims process smoother if you ever need it.

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Call (973) 846-1705 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does fire damage cleanup take in a multi-story building?

Cleanup time varies widely. A small fire on one floor might take a few days, while a larger fire affecting multiple floors can take weeks or months. The pros work in stages, starting with emergency drying and cleaning, then moving to repairs. Your building's size and the extent of damage are the biggest factors.

Can I stay in my unit while repairs are done?

Usually not, especially if the fire affected your floor or the building's systems. Safety is the main concern, as repairs involve dust, chemicals, and structural work. Your local fire marshal or building inspector decides when it is safe to reoccupy. Talk to the pros about a timeline for when you might return.

What should I do with my belongings after a fire?

Sort items into categories: salvageable, questionable, and unsalvageable. Do not touch anything until the area is safe. The pros can clean and restore items like furniture and clothing, but some things, like food or medicine, must be thrown away. Ask for guidance on what can be saved, as it depends on the material and smoke exposure.

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