A recent fire damage restoration project undertaken by DisasterCare North has earned praise not only for its thorough professional execution but also for the compassion and sensitivity shown during a deeply traumatic incident. Following a severe electrical fire on 23rd May 2025, which damaged the conservatory, rear of the house, entire garden, and affected neighbouring properties, DisasterCare were appointed by the policyholder’s insurance company to manage the clean-up and restoration.

“This was a particularly complex and emotional claim,” said Andrew Howarth, Managing Director of DisasterCare North. “We carried out a full strip-out of all affected areas, removed damaged contents and artificial turf, cleared the debris, and completed a deep clean of the property. But it was what happened during that process that really stood out to us all.”

During the clean-up, the team made an unexpected discovery beneath the base of the fire-damaged shed: a family of hedgehogs, miraculously alive. Understanding the emotional toll already placed on the homeowner—who had tragically lost all his pet cats in the fire, including the destruction of his cattery—the team acted swiftly and with sensitivity.

The team located Kirklees Valley Wildlife Rescue, which was open on the Sunday the hedgehogs were found. The hedgehogs were carefully transported 12 miles to the sanctuary, and the policyholder was kept informed throughout. According to Kirklees Valley Wildlife Rescue, the hedgehogs are recovering well and will remain in their care until they are ready to be safely released back into the wild.

— Mr. Farrell, Homeowner and Policyholder

This story underscores the people-first philosophy that defines DisasterCare’s approach. From fire and flood recovery to contents restoration and trauma-sensitive clean-ups, DisasterCare is committed to delivering not only technical excellence, but humanity and reassurance when people need it most.