Contents Cleaning and Pack Out, Nationwide
Inventory, cleaning and storage of furniture, clothing, electronics and keepsakes while the building is restored.
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Tell the operator your city, what happened and whether the fire department has cleared the building. You will be connected with a local provider that covers your area.
(833) 917-4160Fire damage? Call toll free now
- Give your city and ZIP code
- Say what happened and whether the fire is out
- Ask the company about its license and insurance
Quick answer
Pack out means moving your belongings out of the building so they can be cleaned and stored safely while the structure is restored. Many items that look ruined can be saved. Call (833) 917-4160 to reach a local company that inventories, cleans and returns your things.
What pack out is
A crew inventories and photographs the items in each room, packs them and takes them to a cleaning facility or secure storage. This protects belongings from further smoke exposure and from construction dust and keeps the work area clear. Afterward, cleaned items are brought back and unpacked.
What can usually be cleaned
| Item type | Common cleaning approach |
|---|---|
| Hard goods such as dishes, tools, glass | Ultrasonic or detergent cleaning |
| Clothing and linens | Specialized laundering or dry cleaning |
| Upholstery and rugs | Professional cleaning and deodorizing, depending on material |
| Electronics | Evaluation and cleaning by a qualified technician before use |
| Paper, photos and books | Specialized treatment, with results depending on damage |
| Art and antiques | Assessment by a conservator when value or fragility is high |
Why the inventory matters
The room by room list and photographs become part of your insurance claim. Ask for a copy of the inventory, with item descriptions and condition, so you can compare it against your own records. Keep a separate list of anything you remove yourself.
Questions to ask
- Where will my belongings be stored and is the storage secured and insured?
- How will items be labeled and tracked?
- Which items will be cleaned and which are not worth cleaning?
- Who must approve disposal of anything?
- How will electronics and valuables be handled?
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Frequently asked questions
Will I get my things back?
Items that can be cleaned are returned after treatment. Items that cannot be restored are documented for your insurer, and you should approve disposal before it happens.
Is it safe to keep clothing that smells like smoke?
Light odors can often be treated by professional laundering or dry cleaning. Do not store sooty items with clean ones, since residue and odor can transfer.
Does insurance pay for contents cleaning?
Most homeowners and renters policies include personal property coverage that can apply to cleaning or replacement, subject to limits and deductibles. Ask your insurer how contents claims are handled.
Should I move things out myself?
Wait for guidance. Touching soot covered items can set residue, and unsorted moving can mix cleanable items with damaged ones.
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