What to do, how restoration works, and the questions to ask before you hire.
Call (866) 595-0522Last updated: October 2026
A fire leaves openings — broken windows, burned-out doors, holes in the roof. Until they're secured, weather, theft, and animals get in and add damage on top of damage. Board-up and tarping are usually same-day work, and insurers expect you to mitigate further damage: leaving the home open can jeopardize your claim.
Restoration companies offer it as part of their emergency response, usually the same day as the fire. Some fire departments will do a temporary securing, but a proper board-up is a restoration job.
Usually yes, as part of your duty to mitigate further damage — it's protecting the claim, not adding to it. Keep the invoice; it's part of the claim file.
You can, for a simple window, if it's safe to do so. But don't enter a fire-damaged structure without clearance, and don't go on a fire-damaged roof — board-up is usually better left to a crew with the right equipment.
Call a restoration pro now — the sooner cleanup starts, the less damage spreads.
Call (866) 595-0522