What to do after a fire in the home

[pelosi]

Hi, DH left a candle burning in the bedroom when he went to the bathroom and it caught fire, burning the mattress, carpet, bedside cabinet. We managed to contain it but lots of things ruined.

Do we need to call the police for insurance purposes?

Thanks

What insurance purpose do you think you need the police for? It wasn't arson it was an accident. Call your insurance company.

Call your insurance company immediately.

There may be all sorts of things that need looking at. If you had any electronic equipment like a computer that was subject to smoke there can be a residue inside which is a future fire hazard. Pipes may be distorted from the heat. Etc etc. Specialist cleaning because smoke from some things leaves a toxic residue.

You need a specialist to come and look and assess. The insurance co should send one.

That’s what happened at somewhere I was at that had a fire, anyway.

Thanks Raining. Do you think our contents insurance will cover the damage, as DH left the candle unattended for a few minutes? The policy wording isn't clear and we don't have accidental damage cover.

get new fire alarms & co2these will now be damaged & may not work
were any sockets or wiring damaged (the flooring underneath carpet? needs checking but as pp states contact insurance or insurance agent they will tell you what to do. do not throw damaged items away) see if you can find any original receipts.
No one hurt?
I would be having mixed feelings - thank goodness you are alright. Can I suggest dh & you read up some advice about fire prevention & risks on the fire service site - please. I have fire blanket in kitchen - my dd nearly set light to my kitchen whilst cooking but even though the fry pan (yep she got lecture! later) was well a light & I couldn't turn the gas off because of flames - the fire blanket put it out straight away & I was than able to turn gas off. Everybody should have one

I think you should call your local fire station, they may advise coming out to check the fire is completely out as it can spread in walls, under floor boards and in wiring. Sorry, not wanting to worry you, but better safe than sorry. They may also be able to advise about the next steps.