Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration in Raleigh
After a fire, the damage you can see is only part of the problem. Soot, smoke odor and the water used to put the fire out can keep spreading through the home.
- Soot and smoke odor
- Water from firefighting
- Board-up and contents cleaning
After a house fire, only go back inside when the fire department says it is safe. Don't turn on the HVAC, photograph everything, and call your insurer. Fire restoration usually includes securing the house, drying water from firefighting, removing soot, deodorizing, cleaning contents and rebuilding what can't be restored.
Smoke and soot travel through air and ductwork, so rooms the fire never reached can still be damaged. Soot is acidic and can discolor surfaces over time, and the water used by firefighters adds a water damage job on top of the fire damage.
Types of fire damage
Direct fire damage
Burned framing, drywall and contents that usually need to be removed.
Smoke and soot
Residue on walls, ceilings and contents, even in rooms far from the fire.
Water damage
Water from hoses and sprinklers soaking floors, walls and insulation.
Odor
Smoke odor that settles into porous materials and ductwork.
What to do after a fire
- Wait for clearance from the fire department before going back inside.
- Don't turn on electricity, gas or HVAC until a qualified professional checks them. Running the HVAC can spread soot.
- Wear gloves and a mask because soot and ash can irritate skin and lungs.
- Photograph everything before cleaning or throwing anything away.
- Call your insurer and ask about temporary housing if you can't stay in the home.
What fire and smoke restoration includes
- Securing the property by boarding windows and tarping the roof.
- Water removal and drying from firefighting water.
- Soot removal from walls, ceilings and contents, using methods matched to the type of soot.
- Odor removal which may include cleaning, sealing and specialized deodorizing equipment.
- Contents cleaning or pack-out of items that can be saved.
- Demolition and rebuild of materials that can't be restored.
Questions to ask the contractor
- Can you show proof of licensing for repair work and proof of insurance?
- How will you remove smoke odor, and how will you confirm it is gone?
- Will you inventory and document damaged contents for my insurer?
- Do you handle the rebuild, or only cleanup?
- Will I get a written scope of work before repairs begin?
Why speed matters
Soot can etch and discolor fixtures, countertops and electronics over time, and wet materials from firefighting can start to grow mold. Getting cleaning and drying started early can reduce what has to be replaced.
Frequently asked questions
Can smoke damage happen in rooms the fire didn't reach?
Yes. Smoke and soot travel through air and ducts, so rooms away from the fire can still have residue and odor.
Can I clean soot myself?
Wiping soot can smear it into surfaces. For anything beyond a small area, ask a professional how they plan to clean your specific surfaces.
Does homeowners insurance cover fire damage?
Many homeowners policies cover fire, but details vary. Ask your agent about coverage for the structure, contents and additional living expenses.
Are you a restoration company?
No. We are a free referral service that connects homeowners with independent contractors and do not guarantee any contractor's work.
Related help
Water in your home right now?
Stop the water, stay away from wet electrical areas, and take photos. Our first-steps checklist walks you through the next hour.