When your home has just gone up in flames, the last thing you need is a high-pressure sales pitch. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what some fire restoration companies are banking on. There’s a growing trend of so-called “fire chasers” — companies or individuals who show up uninvited at fire scenes and aggressively try to sign homeowners on the spot. It’s unethical, predatory, and often leaves families worse off than the fire itself.
What Is Fire Chasing?
Fire chasing refers to the practice of restoration companies (or their hired middlemen) monitoring emergency scanner traffic and rushing to fire scenes to solicit business. In many cases, they’ll knock on your door while smoke is still in the air — pressuring you to sign restoration contracts without giving you time to process the damage or consult your insurance.
These companies may promise:
- Immediate help with cleanup and reconstruction
- Kickbacks or “rebates” if you sign quickly
- Direct handling of your insurance claim
But what they don’t tell you is just as important.
The Hidden Dangers of Signing Too Soon
Once a fire chasing company has your signature, they often:
- Take control of your entire insurance claim, sometimes asking you to sign over power of attorney
- Cut corners on reconstruction and cleaning, maximizing their profits while minimizing your repairs
- Leave you out of the loop with little transparency on how your insurance money is being spent
Even worse, some companies never perform the work they promised — or subcontract it to the lowest bidder, resulting in shoddy or incomplete restoration.
MSI Does It Differently
At MSI, we do not chase fire trucks. We do not wait outside your home. We do not pressure people into signing anything in a moment of crisis. Any fire damage restoration work we perform comes from direct calls from homeowners or insurance companies — never from third-party brokers or door-knocking salespeople.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- No Power of Attorney Required: We never ask clients to sign away control of their insurance claim. You stay in charge of your property and your decisions.
- No Middlemen: We don’t work with outside sales teams, contractors, or anyone trying to sell our services without your knowledge.
- Direct, Transparent Communication: We work hand-in-hand with your insurance adjuster, documenting damage thoroughly and making sure your property is restored correctly.
- Certified, Professional Care: As an IICRC-certified firm with decades of experience, we know the science of smoke and soot cleanup — and we treat every home with respect.
Don’t Let a Second Disaster Follow the First
It’s hard enough dealing with the trauma of a fire. Don’t let opportunistic companies add to your stress by taking advantage of your situation. If someone shows up at your door uninvited after a fire — slow down, ask questions, and don’t sign anything until you’ve had time to make an informed decision.
If you or your insurance company is looking for ethical, experienced fire restoration professionals, MSI is here when you need us — no pressure, no gimmicks, no games.