Total Loss Fire at a Mid-Rise Hotel

Overview

A devastating fire destroyed a 120-year-old, six-story commercial building encompassing more than 95,000 square feet of hospitality space. The blaze caused extensive fire, smoke, and water damage throughout the structure, ultimately leading to a full collapse of all six floors and the roof into the basement. The severity of the loss required an immediate and highly coordinated response to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and the efficient removal of debris.

Challenge

The site presented multiple complexities.

• The building's age and construction created instability in the remaining masonry and steel walls.
• The urban location and proximity to other active businesses demanded that all demolition and debris removal activities be carefully controlled to avoid disruptions.
• Additionally, access to interior areas was impossible due to the structural collapse, requiring creative methods for data collection and assessment.
• The property was determined to be a total loss, requiring detailed evaluation and planning before demolition could begin.

PLC Response

Parker Loss Consultants (PLC) Construction Consulting mobilized immediately to provide expert assessment and support. Our team:

• Conducted a comprehensive exterior inspection and digital photo documentation of the remaining structure.
• Created detailed diagrams and site mapping to capture the pre-loss configuration and post-loss conditions.
• Researched and reconstructed building data for interior elements that could not be directly accessed due to collapse.
• Worked in close coordination with the demolition contractor and building owner to establish a precise scope of work and cost estimate for demolition.
• Developed a safe and efficient plan for dismantling unstable walls and properly disposing of the masonry and steel debris that had fallen six stories into the basement.

Outcome

Through focused project management and coordinated field operations, PLC ensured that the demolition and debris removal were completed:

• Safely, with no incidents or injuries,
• Efficiently, in less than three weeks from project start, and
• With minimal disruption to neighboring businesses and traffic flow.

The site was fully cleared and stabilized, allowing for future redevelopment opportunities. PLC's comprehensive consulting support helped the client control costs, maintain safety, and bring closure to a challenging total loss event.