Why older homes need different questions

Most fire restoration contractors are set up for the houses they see most often: drywall, modern framing, carpet and standard trim. Those methods work well on a 1990s house. On a 1920s house, the same approach can remove plaster that could have been cleaned, discard trim that cannot be replaced, and miss smoke inside open wall cavities.

Asking good questions up front helps you understand whether a contractor knows the difference. Pay attention to how specific the answers are. A contractor who has worked on many older homes will usually talk naturally about plaster repair, shellac, lead-safe practices and coordination with specialty trades.

Experience and approach

  1. How many homes built before 1940 have you restored after a fire, and can you describe one?
  2. Do you clean and keep plaster when possible, or do you typically replace with drywall?
  3. Who on your side would make the call on whether a wall or ceiling is salvageable?
  4. How do you protect and store original trim and doors that need to come off?
  5. Do you work with a plasterer, millwork shop, window restorer or tile setter who knows older homes?
  6. Have you handled projects on landmarked properties or in historic districts?

Answers that suggest experience, and answers that suggest caution

Encouraging

  • Talks about testing plaster and paint before demolition
  • Mentions inspecting wall cavities and attics for smoke migration
  • Suggests test cleaning on original finishes
  • Explains when they would recommend saving versus replacing
  • Knows Denver permits and landmark review exist

Worth probing further

  • Assumes all walls will be gutted to studs
  • Has no plan for lead or asbestos
  • Treats all trim and doors as standard replacement
  • Cannot explain how odor in cavities will be addressed
  • Pressures you to sign before the adjuster has seen the house

Safety, paperwork and coordination

  1. Are your technicians trained in lead-safe practices, and is your firm certified for renovation in pre-1978 homes?
  2. Who will do any asbestos inspection and abatement, and are they state certified?
  3. Ask whether technicians hold IICRC certification in fire and smoke restoration.
  4. Will you pull the Denver permits, and who coordinates inspections?
  5. How will you document what was removed and why for the insurance claim?
  6. What happens if odor returns after the walls are closed?

General information for Park Hill, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.