We had a major fire and will be out of our house for months. Insurance will cover repairs and loss, but does anyone have any specific advice for getting through this time smoothly? We're incredibly lucky to have a place to live and my husband, dogs and I are fine. Thanks.
Thanks everyone. We are keeping receipts for everything - insurance has been great. They are doing all the clean up and inventory, everything will be cleaned, and if it can't be cleaned, we will be reimbursed. (Sadly, that will probably include every plastic toy in my house - and that was a lot!) My silver lining: I'll be really easy to buy for next Christmas!
I'm so glad you and your family okay. That is what matters most. I don't know what all you lost. If you lost family photos and such, get in contact with other family members and see if you can get copies of their photos. Getting the smoke smell out of clothing will be next to impossible. You might need to replace them. My advise is to take one day at a time.
I lived through horrible major flooding. the house was rebuilt, then again and then we moved. Our marriage didn't survive.
Take it one day at a time.
Eliminate actually talking to people wherever possible, write letters, keep notes, keep documents. Talking to people can be frustrating and you might be pretty raw right now. Your health is most important so avoid any foreseen arguments.
Try to enjoy where you are staying for the time being.
Try to maintain a normal daily life. Sometimes we can get trapped into 'pity parties'.
And I will join you in thanking God you are safe!!
I can't even imagine. So glad everyone is ok! My brother's family had a minor kitchen fire and it turned their lives upside down for over a month or more.
One thing I learned from their experience is to keep all receipts of EVERYTHING! Every meal out, every replaced item, etc. Keep lots of notes when talking to people (or like someone else said, do it in writing).
I know personally when I go through a difficult time, I need things to do to feel productive. Maybe taking the time to focus on one aspect of replacing things at a time will help? Focus on replacing the necessities, then the pictures, then things, etc. When ready, start thinking of different decor you want your bedroom, living room, etc. Maybe if you can focus on something fun (if you like decorating), it will give you a better place to visit mentally?
Best of luck to you!!!
I am so sorry about your fire, but very happy that you are all ok.
If your important vital documents are not in a safe or a safety deposit box somewhere, you will need to get them replaced.
Birth certificates
Social security cards
Passports
Naturalization certificates if applicable
Marriage license
I also agree with asking family members for photos.
Do you belong to a church or other community organization that could hold a benefit for you, like a carwash, or clothing/food/household goods drive?
No advice here but I wanted you to know that my prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Does your insurance have "loss of use" coverage? That pays your expenses to live somewhere else while you can't live in your own home. Even if you are living with relatives, they can charge you rent. It eases the burden and tensions.
Also, keep every reciept for every single thing you buy. Every time you eat out. All clothes. Medications, toothbrushes, everything! Turn all your recipets in to your insurance company.
