A garage fire can be a devastating experience, creating charred debris and smoke damage as well as uncertainty about what to do next.
For years, our team at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore has provided Chicagoland residents with fire damage restoration services, so we understand how difficult this situation can be.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do—and what not to do—after a garage fire, plus how our expert team can help you restore your space.
Key Takeaways
- Don’t re-enter your garage until the fire department makes sure it’s safe.
- Notify your insurance company and begin your claim as soon as possible – don’t forget to take photos to document everything.
- Avoid DIY cleanup, since fire residue is toxic and requires professional remediation.
- Act quickly! Call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore to prevent further damage and expedite the recovery process: (312) 707-8597
What to Do Immediately After a Garage Fire
1. Prioritize Safety
Before anything else, make sure that you’re making safety your top priority.
Here are a few tips:
- Do not re-enter the garage until it has been cleared by the Chicago Fire Department or another local fire authority. Fire can damage a building’s structural integrity and cause it to become unstable, and residual smoke and chemicals can be hazardous.
- Be alert for hidden dangers, such as weakened support beams, smoldering hot spots, or exposed wiring.
2. Call 911 and Report the Fire
If the fire is still active or wasn’t already reported, call 911 immediately.
Even small fires can escalate quickly or leave behind lingering hotspots that can reignite later.
Once the first responders have put the fire out, make sure an official incident report is filed.
This documentation will be essential for the insurance claim and restoration process down the road.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
As soon as it’s safe, call your insurance provider to begin the claims process.
Most homeowner’s policies cover garage fires.
To set yourself up for success, make sure you:
- Describe the incident in detail.
- Document damage with photos and videos (if safe to do so).
- Avoid discarding anything until the insurance adjuster inspects the scene.
4. Call ServiceMaster of Lake Shore
Smoke, soot, and water from firefighting efforts can continue to damage your property long after the flames go out.
That’s why it’s critical to call an experienced, local restoration company like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore for fire damage restoration.
Our team is available 24/7 to respond quickly and begin the cleanup process, helping you minimize losses and get back to normal faster.
Contact us today: (312) 707-8597.
What Not to Do After a Garage Fire
1. Don’t Re-Enter The Space Until Authorities Say It’s Safe
Even if the fire looks contained, there may still be hidden structural or air quality hazards.
Stay away from the affected area until you’ve been given the all-clear.
2. Don’t Attempt DIY Cleaning
Soot and smoke particles contain dangerous compounds, especially if your garage was used to store paint, oil, or gasoline.
Without professional equipment and protective gear, you risk inhaling or spreading toxic residue.
With this in mind, resist the urge to DIY the job and leave it to the pros instead!
3. Don’t Turn the Power Back On
Electrical systems affected by fire or water are extremely hazardous.
Because of this, wait until a licensed electrician inspects the wiring before flipping any breakers or switches.
4. Don’t Dispose of Damaged Items Immediately
As tempting as it may be to clear things out, it’s crucial to leave everything in place until your insurance adjuster has a chance to document the damage.
Premature removal could result in denied claims or reduced compensation.
5. Don’t Assume the Fire Was Limited to the Garage
Smoke and heat often travel through vents, walls, or attics, spreading damage far beyond the visible burn zone.
To get a full picture of the damage, you’ll need to invest in a full property damage inspection.
How ServiceMaster of Lake Shore Handles Garage Fire Restoration
At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we follow a comprehensive, step-by-step process to ensure full restoration.
Here’s what you can expect from our team:
1. Secure the Site
We board up windows, doors, and any compromised areas.
We also tarp exposed sections to protect against Chicago’s unpredictable weather and prevent further damage from rain or pests.
2. Remove Debris and Damaged Materials
Our technicians safely remove all fire-damaged items and structural debris.
We document every step for your insurance provider, making your claims process smoother.
3. Content Packout and Restoration Services
If personal belongings are salvageable, we’ll inventory, pack, and transport them to our off-site facility.
There, we clean, deodorize, and restore them while we work on your garage structure.
4. Water and Smoke Damage Mitigation
We use powerful water extraction equipment, industrial fans, and dehumidifiers to remove moisture and prevent mold.
Smoke odor is neutralized using ozone machines or thermal fogging.
5. Soot and Toxic Residue Cleanup
Soot settles everywhere—on walls, floors, and even inside appliances.
Our team uses specialized cleaning agents, HEPA vacuums, and air scrubbers to safely remove all traces of soot and toxins.
6. Structural Repairs and Reconstruction
Whether your garage needs new drywall, ceiling joists, insulation, or even a full rebuild, our skilled contractors handle every detail.
We’ll coordinate permits, inspections, and repairs to restore your space completely.
How to Prevent Garage Fires in the Future
Chicago homes often use garages as storage for flammable materials, making them particularly vulnerable to fires.
Here are a few tips to stay safe:
- Store gasoline, propane, and paint in approved containers—away from heat sources.
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords.
- Don’t run space heaters or power tools unattended.
- Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in or near the garage.
- Schedule routine electrical inspections, especially in older homes in neighborhoods like Rogers Park or Humboldt Park.
Don’t Let a Garage Fire Destroy Your Space! We can Help!
Recovering from a garage fire can feel like an uphill battle, but you don’t have to face it alone.
At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we’re proud to serve the Chicago community with expert fire damage cleanup and restoration.
From initial board-up to final reconstruction, we’re with you every step of the way.
If you’ve experienced a garage fire anywhere in the Chicagoland area, give us a call today. Our team is here to help: (312) 707-8597.
FAQs
What causes most garage fires in Chicago homes?
Common causes include:
- Improper storage of flammable materials (paint, gas, etc.)
- Electrical malfunctions or overloaded circuits
- Faulty appliances or power tools
- Space heaters or water heaters located in the garage
- Improper disposal of oily rags or combustibles
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover a garage fire?
In most cases, yes. Homeowner’s policies typically cover fire damage, including detached structures like garages and their contents.
Coverage details may vary, so check with your insurance provider.
How long does garage fire restoration take?
The timeline depends on the extent of the damage. Minor fires may be cleaned up in a few days, while more severe cases that involve reconstruction can take several weeks.
At ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, we provide detailed timelines and keep you updated throughout the entire process.
