you are entitled to be kept safe in a clean environment
You are entitled to be kept safe in a clean environment, that’s what insurance is Yes, we have encountered this situation many times, people choosing to sleep in a house after a small fire or major smoke condition like a puff back. Even when some clients become aware that their insurance coverage would pay for all the cleaning and the policy likely has A.L.E (alternate living expense) coverage that would reimburse them for housing costs. Even when presented with this information, they still choose to stay. Yes, you are entitled to be kept safe in a clean environment, that’s what insurance is for, we say you use it.
We explain the inhalation risks of toxic smoke particles in the air that can’t be seen and that they will be breathing in. These particles, not visible to the naked, eye will remain airborne for up to a week or more. We show them that all surfaces, textiles (soft goods like blankets, drapes & clothes) clearly smell and should all be cleaned immediately so that more toxic smoke particles don’t become airborne when these items are moved or used. In addition, wearing clothing that has toxic smoke particles absorbed into them creates a pathway for intrusion into your body through absorption by physical contact on bare skin. Smoke will penetrate the interior portions of cabinets & closets exposing their food, cups, dishes, etc. During intense smoke conditions even the interior of refrigerators will show signs of smoke intrusion.
Why stay in a toxic environment?
What really makes us scratch our heads is why would anyone expose themselves & their family (pets included) to these hazards when their insurance policy would likely cover all of the necessary cleaning & air filtering to make their home safe? Yes, it will be inconvenient and you might actually have to move out but if you have ALE, there is no cost. Plus, accessing ALE will give you two additional benefits. The first benefit is your insurance carrier will expedite the processing & paying of this claim so they can minimize the ALE costs. The second benefit in moving out is that it will give your smoke damage cleanup contractor full access to clean every square inch of your home with a large crew which should make the project go much quicker.
Use your A.L.E (alternate living expense), stay safe.
With all the above said, wouldn’t anyone & everyone want their project to go quicker? Who would knowingly expose their family to dangerous carcinogens so their insurance carrier could save money?
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The True Restorations Team
