A fire originating from a recalled heater in a neighbouring office block led to extensive smoke and soot infiltration in nearby properties, including a large warehouse occupied by a leading provider of automotive afterparts and accessories. This unexpected incident caused damage not only to the buildings but also to electronics, stock, and warehouse fixtures, presenting a complex set of restoration challenges that required a highly coordinated and innovative approach.
The primary objectives were to minimise business interruption, salvage valuable stock, and ensure safety and functionality in the restored spaces. Smoke and soot had affected thousands of delicate automotive components, electronics, and racking systems, all of which required careful assessment and specialist restoration processes.
The Challenges:
Restricted building access and limited safe areas within the affected warehouse.
Urgent need to minimise business interruption and expedite restoration efforts to support a quick operational recovery.
Risk management to ensure restored items posed no liability or safety risks once operations resumed.
Solution Provided:
Steamatic’s team, appointed by the client’s loss adjuster, promptly mobilised onsite within 24 hours. A structured plan was developed to address immediate safety concerns, establish restoration priorities, and maintain clear communication across all stakeholders. Key actions included:
Rapid stakeholder engagement to align expectations and coordinate on critical decisions.
Thorough assessment and planning within 48 hours, detailing steps for stock salvage, cleaning protocols, and safe restoration of electronics and racking systems.
Efficient restoration execution, resulting in comprehensive cleaning and repairs completed within three weeks, allowing the client to resume operations with minimal disruption.
This project demonstrated the power of strategic collaboration, clear communication, and efficiency, with all parties highly satisfied by the speed, cost-effectiveness, and high standards of safety and quality maintained throughout.