Total Fire Loss Resources

The Herd at Buffalo Restoration is truly sorry for your loss. We want to provide some information to consider during this difficult time. Increasing your knowledge base is going to be crucial and it helps dispel fears.

Our sole intention in providing this information is to help our community members in this time of crisis in any way possible. We are here for you and your family as trusted advisors and resources. This is not a solicitation for promoting our services.

Information to Consider

Claims Management

• Agent Communication
  • Ensure to ask questions regarding what your policy will cover.
• Adjuster Communication
  • Be firm but polite when asking questions. Build a relationship of teamwork and understanding.
  • Ensure to have excellent documentation, as it is essential. Documentation would be gathering photos, receipts, and professional opinions.
• Contractors
  • When speaking to any contractor, have a vision of your end goal in mind. This will help your funds stretch further.
  • Ensure to have contracts and agreements in place prior to starting any kind of work on the home.
• Additional Living Expenses
  • Think of the long haul in this situation. The process of rebuilding your home could take up to 12 months or longer to complete.

Debris Removal

• Roll-off Service (containers used to handle construction and demolition waste)
  • L&L Site Services – 406-388-7171
• Excavation Contractors – Debris handling and removal
  • TLC Total Excavation Services – 406-388-7696
• Personal Protective Equipment
  • At a minimum, wear an N95 mask and gloves while sifting through the debris. Wear a disposable cotton jumpsuit and wash regularly. Consider thick soled boots to prevent punctures to your feet.
    • The toxins in the soot can cause harm if it comes in contact directly with your skin, or if you breathe the soot into your lungs.
• Keep an eye out for areas of the home or structure that are unstable and could collapse.

Foundations and Concrete Slabs

• The foundation will need to be inspected and deodorized.
  • If this is not done prior to the start of rebuilding your home, the odors can permeate back into your newly build home.
• It is important to have engineer inspect for stability or damages.
  • Engineering Firm – Madison Engineering – 406-586-0262

Septic Tanks

• Heavy equipment can damage a septic tank if driven over due to the weight.
• Septic tanks can freeze and have additional issues during winter months. Notify your insurance adjuster of your septic tank.

Lawns and Landscaping

• Work with a qualified landscaping contractor to determine the extent of the damages.
  • Montana Landscape Curbing – 406-570-9797

Electrical Services

• Be cautious of electrical hazards. Contact Northwestern Energy for service disconnect.
  • "Call Before You Dig" – Dial 811

Personal Property Recovery

• At Buffalo Restoration, we have seen miraculous things happen to personal property items that are involved in a fire. Sometimes they are protected by physics and can be salvaged.
• Prior to starting to sift through the debris, have a vision of your end goal in mind. As you do not want to possibly damage items by rushing in. Spend time thinking about the locations of items and prioritize the high importance and value items until you have determined it is the best and final route. Plan and be tactful.
• Remember to not lose hope! Get the facts and investigate!

Please do not hesitate to contact our office at (406) 586-8109, and any member of our team are happy to assist you with any questions or concerns that arise.