A fire changes everything in an instant. Our IICRC S700 certified team walks you through every step—from emergency board-up and smoke cleanup to complete reconstruction. 2026 average restoration cost $27,091 ($4-$7/sq ft). You don't face this alone.
You're Not Alone in This
If you're reading this, you may be dealing with one of the most stressful experiences a homeowner or business owner can face. A fire doesn't just damage property—it disrupts your sense of safety, your daily life, and your peace of mind. We understand that, and we want you to know: it does get better from here.
Whether it was a kitchen fire, an electrical fire, or wildfire damage, the path forward starts with understanding what happened and what comes next. The smoke smell, the soot on everything, the water left behind by firefighters—these problems are real, but they're also solvable. Thousands of families and business owners have walked this road before you, and they've come out the other side.
This guide will walk you through every step of fire and smoke damage restoration—from what to do in the first 24 hours to how long the full recovery takes. Our goal isn't to sell you something. It's to give you the information you need to make good decisions during a difficult time.
Our team is available 24/7 and can walk you through what to expect.
After the Fire: Your First 24 Hours
What you do in the first day after a fire can significantly impact your recovery. Follow these steps to protect your safety, your property, and your insurance claim.
Never re-enter your property until the fire department and fire marshal have cleared the structure. Even after the flames are out, structural instability, toxic gases, and hot spots can pose serious risks.
Once cleared to enter, be aware of weakened floors, damaged stairs, compromised roofing, and exposed electrical wiring. Wear an N95 mask—soot particles are harmful to breathe. If anything feels unstable, leave immediately.
If the structure is safe, open windows and doors to begin airing out smoke. Do not turn on the HVAC system—smoke particles in the ductwork will spread contamination to unaffected areas of your home or business.
Take photos and video of every room, every damaged item, and every surface before any cleanup begins. Your insurance company will need this documentation. Walk through room by room, capturing damage from multiple angles.
File your claim as soon as possible. Ask about Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage if you can't stay in your home. Keep your claim number handy—you'll reference it throughout the restoration process.
Contact an IICRC-certified restoration company to begin emergency mitigation. Board-up services protect against weather and vandalism. Water extraction prevents mold from firefighting runoff. The first 24-48 hours are critical for saving contents and surfaces.
Florida
Kitchen fires and electrical fires from humidity-related corrosion are the most common causes. Florida's wildfire-urban interface also puts properties at risk during dry seasons.
North Carolina & South Carolina
Heating-related fires from space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves spike during winter months. Older homes may have outdated wiring that increases electrical fire risk.
Soot is chemically active. Fresh smoke residue is easier to remove than 48-hour-old residue, and 72-hour-old residue can permanently etch metal and plastic at the molecular level. Every hour of delay compounds both the cost and the probability of permanent damage. See our fire damage cost guide for the complete breakdown.
| Window | What's happening | Risk & cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1 hour | Fire suppressed; smoke cooling; soot beginning to settle on surfaces Action: Safety walk-through, confirm fire marshal release, call 24/7 dispatch, DO NOT enter until cleared | Lowest — most contamination still airborne Cost impact: Standard emergency response rates apply |
| 1-6 hours | Water from firefighting saturating drywall, wood, carpet; soot bonding to warm surfaces Action: Emergency board-up, roof tarping, water extraction begins, contents documented in place | Low if immediate action; Category 2+ water already forming Cost impact: Board-up $500-$3,000; tarping $400-$1,500; extraction billed hourly |
| 6-24 hours | Soot oxidation begins — acidic residues react with metal, grout, plastics; wet smoke penetrating porous materials Action: HEPA air scrubbers deployed, contents pack-out triage, insurance notification, moisture mapping for fire water damage | Moderate — irreversible metal/plastic damage possible if delayed Cost impact: HVAC duct cleaning $250-$500; antimicrobial treatment adds $400-$800 |
| 24-48 hours | Permanent yellow-brown staining on walls, ceilings, fabrics; smoke odor migrating into HVAC and wall cavities Action: Full chemical cleaning begins, thermal fogging deployed, contents relocated to facility for ozone treatment | Significant — stain permanence rising; mold risk from firefighting water Cost impact: Expect $2,000-$5,000 in added deep-cleaning line items |
| 48-72 hours | Metal surfaces pitting; plastic discoloring; electronics developing corrosion on circuit boards Action: Electronics pack-out to ultrasonic facility, structural soot removal, expanded demo of heavily damaged materials | High — hidden electronic damage often discovered at this stage Cost impact: Electronics restoration $200-$1,000 per item; project 30-50% higher than Day 0 estimate |
| 1+ week | Wood framing beginning to absorb odor molecules; paint unable to seal in smoke smell; mold from unaddressed water Action: Full structural encapsulation, deeper demo, mold remediation coordination, reconstruction planning | Severe — structural components may need replacement not just cleaning Cost impact: Project cost can double if not addressed; insurance supplements required |
| 2+ weeks | Smoke odor permanently embedded in insulation, carpet pad, drywall paper; active mold on damp materials Action: Full mold remediation protocol, insulation replacement, complete demo of porous materials, air quality testing | Critical — health impacts for occupants, resale disclosure obligations Cost impact: Total restoration cost can triple original estimate |
Why speed matters more for fire than for most restoration work
Fire residue is chemically reactive. Acidic soot oxidizes on contact with oxygen, bonding increasingly tightly to every surface it touches. Protein soot from grease fires penetrates paint, drywall, and fabric within hours. Metal corrosion from fuel-oil puffback can begin in 72 hours and become irreversible within a week. The golden response window for fire restoration is under 24 hours — every additional day compounds both cost and permanent damage probability. Coordinate water extraction and mold prevention in parallel because firefighting water creates a 24-48 hour mold risk window on top of the fire damage itself.
Call dispatch within the first hour to stay in standard response pricing.
The IICRC S700 Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration is the ANSI-accredited reference your insurance adjuster expects every certified restoration company to follow. S700 classifies fire residue into four distinct smoke categories, each with its own cleaning protocol. Using the wrong protocol on the wrong residue type is the single most common reason DIY cleanup permanently sets damage instead of removing it.
Dry Smoke
$4.00 - $5.50 / sq ft
Common sources
Fast-burning fires at high temperature — paper, wood, plastic materials burning with good oxygen supply
Residue character
Fine, dry, powdery particulate. Sits on top of surfaces rather than bonding deeply. Non-smeary.
Cleaning protocol
HEPA vacuuming → dry chemical sponge → pH-neutral wet cleaning → odor sealing
Key challenge
Easiest smoke type to remove if addressed within 72 hours
Wet Smoke
$5.50 - $7.00 / sq ft
Common sources
Slow, low-heat fires with poor oxygen — synthetic materials, plastics, rubber, upholstery smoldering
Residue character
Thick, smeary, black residue with strong odor. Bonds to surfaces tightly. Corrosive to metal and grout.
Cleaning protocol
Cannot dry-sponge — smears deeper. Requires solvent-based chemical cleaners, repeated wet passes, often selective demo
Key challenge
Hardest smoke type to clean; wrong technique makes it worse
Protein Smoke
$5.00 - $7.00 / sq ft
Common sources
Kitchen grease fires, protein combustion (meat, poultry, fat) — the classic "unattended stovetop" incident
Residue character
Often INVISIBLE to the eye but leaves a pervasive, penetrating odor. Yellow-brown oily film bonds at molecular level
Cleaning protocol
Degreaser pre-treatment → enzymatic cleaners → thermal fogging with protein-neutralizing agent → ozone treatment
Key challenge
Most often misdiagnosed because damage is invisible; homeowners attempt DIY and embed the odor permanently
Fuel Oil / Puffback
$6.00 - $8.00 / sq ft (whole-home typical)
Common sources
Oil furnace puffback events, boiler failures, HVAC ignition malfunctions — unique winter hazard in NC, uncommon in FL
Residue character
Fine black powder covering every surface in the home via forced-air distribution. Acidic — causes rapid metal corrosion
Cleaning protocol
Whole-home deployment required (HVAC spread is total). HEPA vacuum → solvent cleaning → duct cleaning mandatory → complete HVAC filter replacement
Key challenge
HVAC MUST be shut down immediately — running it spreads contamination within minutes
Every smoke type responds to a specific cleaning approach. Applying the wrong protocol — especially dry-sponging wet smoke, or running the HVAC after a puffback — permanently worsens the damage. Here is what a certified S700 technician knows on contact.
| Protocol | Works on | Failure mode |
|---|---|---|
| HEPA vacuuming | ALL types | Removes loose soot without aerosolizing particulate. Always the first step. Regular vacuum disperses fine soot through exhaust, making damage worse |
| Dry chemical sponge | Dry smoke only | Rubbery sponge absorbs soot in a single downward stroke without smearing On wet smoke it smears residue deeper; on protein it bonds with surface oil |
| Solvent chemical cleaning | Wet smoke, protein, fuel oil | pH-matched chemical agent dissolves bonded residue without damaging substrate Wrong pH etches paint/finish; water-based cleaner spreads oily residues |
| Thermal fogging | Odor phase — all types | Vaporized deodorant penetrates the same pathways smoke traveled, neutralizing odor Must be applied AFTER cleaning; before cleaning it can bond residue further |
| Ozone treatment | Odor phase — all types | O₃ oxidizes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) trapped in porous materials Unsafe for occupied spaces; kills plants, damages rubber, requires vacated treatment zone |
| Hydroxyl generators | Odor phase — safe for occupied | UV-generated hydroxyl radicals break odor molecules; safer than ozone Slower than ozone; less effective on deeply penetrated odors alone |
Fire class determines both how the fire is suppressed and what kind of residue it leaves behind — which in turn drives the restoration cost and cleaning protocol. A small Class B grease fire can be more expensive to restore than a larger Class A wood fire because protein soot is harder to remove than dry smoke. Understanding which class your fire falls into helps you anticipate scope, cost, and timeline.
Class A
Common sources
Wood, paper, cloth, rubber, plastics, furniture, textiles, residential building contents
Frequency
Most common residential fire — roughly 85% of all home fires
Extinguisher
Water (A), foam (AB), multipurpose dry chemical (ABC)
Residue left behind
Dry smoke, powdery soot; generally easier to remove if addressed quickly
Restoration protocol
Standard IICRC S700 protocols: HEPA vacuum → dry sponge → wet clean → odor treatment
$4-$5.50/sq ft typical for remediation scope
Class B
Common sources
Kitchen grease, cooking oil, gasoline, propane, solvents, paint thinner, alcohol
Frequency
Second most common residential — kitchen fires account for ~50% of US home fires
Extinguisher
Foam (AB), CO₂ (BC), dry chemical (ABC/BC). NEVER use water — spreads the fuel
Residue left behind
Protein soot (grease fires) — invisible film with pervasive odor that embeds in porous surfaces
Restoration protocol
Degreaser pre-treatment → enzymatic cleaners → thermal fogging → ozone chamber for contents
$5-$7/sq ft typical; often more expensive than Class A due to protein soot difficulty
Class C
Common sources
Wiring, outlets, appliances, HVAC units, lighting circuits, electronics; fuel-oil puffbacks
Frequency
Third most common; ~13% of residential fires involve electrical failure
Extinguisher
CO₂ (BC), dry chemical (ABC/BC), clean agent (Class C). NEVER use water
Residue left behind
Wet smoke + acidic oil soot from insulation and plastic wiring covers. Very corrosive to metal.
Restoration protocol
Immediate HVAC shutdown → solvent cleaning → complete duct cleaning → electrical system inspection
$5.50-$7.50/sq ft; HVAC spread often makes this a whole-home remediation
Class D
Common sources
Magnesium, titanium, sodium, lithium, potassium — industrial, lab, machine shop fires
Frequency
Rare in residential; common in industrial facilities
Extinguisher
Class D dry powder ONLY. Water or CO₂ causes violent reaction
Residue left behind
Reactive metal oxides and residues; may require specialized hazmat protocols
Restoration protocol
Custom scoping required; often industrial hygiene coordination
Custom quote; highly project-dependent
Most residential fires are mixed-class
A kitchen grease fire (Class B) typically escalates to involve cabinets, drywall, and nearby wood framing (Class A) and sometimes appliance wiring (Class C). This is why IICRC S700 certified fire restoration is typically scoped across multiple smoke types and cleaning protocols simultaneously — a single-class estimate underestimates a real residential project. See our kitchen fire restoration guide for the most common mixed-class scenario.
Fire restoration is measured work, not guesswork. Each piece of equipment exists for a specific smoke category and a specific phase of the project. Using the right tool at the right time is what separates professional restoration from an expensive mistake.
| Equipment | Specification | Purpose | When deployed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ozone generator (high-output) | 7,000-14,000 mg/hr O₃ | Oxidizes odor molecules at the molecular level; penetrates same pathways smoke traveled | Unoccupied spaces only — vacated treatment zones. Used on Class B and C fires after cleaning phase complete. |
| Hydroxyl generator (UV-based) | 1,500-4,500 ft³ coverage | UV-generated ·OH radicals break odor compounds; safe for occupied spaces | Occupied structures, hospitals, schools, situations where ozone is not an option. |
| Thermal fogger | Vapor particles 0.5-50 micron | Deodorizing agent vaporized to same particle size as smoke so it follows identical pathways | Odor neutralization AFTER chemical cleaning; before cleaning it bonds residue. |
| HEPA air scrubber | 500-2,000 CFM, 99.97% @ 0.3μm | Pulls airborne particulate from active work zone; maintains negative pressure | Deployed from Day 0. One per 250-500 sq ft of affected area, running 24/7. |
| HEPA vacuum (industrial) | 200+ CFM with filtered exhaust | Removes loose soot without dispersal; critical first cleanup step | Always before any wet cleaning. Standard vacuums exhaust fine soot back into air. |
| Chemical sponge (dry) | Vulcanized rubber, reusable | Absorbs dry smoke residue from walls and ceilings without smearing | Dry smoke ONLY. Wrong technique on wet smoke embeds residue deeper. |
| Ultrasonic cleaner (contents) | 40 kHz cavitation, stainless tank | Cavitation bubbles mechanically clean smoke residue from complex surfaces | Electronics, metal contents, jewelry, small hardware — facility pack-out required. |
| FLIR thermal imaging camera | 320×240 resolution, ±2°C | Finds hidden smoke pathways and fire-water saturation behind walls | Assessment phase and final clearance. Reveals hidden damage invisible to the eye. |
| Rule | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Ozone BEFORE cleaning | FAIL | Bonds residue further into surfaces. Always clean first, ozone last. |
| Ozone in occupied space | FAIL | Respiratory harm, kills plants, degrades rubber. Vacated zone only. |
| HVAC running during fire cleanup | FAIL | Spreads contamination whole-home. Shut down Day 0 until duct cleaning complete. |
| HEPA scrubber from Day 0 | CORRECT | Pulls airborne particulate; maintains negative pressure in work zone. |
| Thermal fog after final cleaning pass | CORRECT | Deodorizing particles follow smoke pathways when cleaning is complete. |
| Hydroxyl for occupied restoration | CORRECT | Slower than ozone but safe for homeowner presence during treatment. |
Most fire damage restoration projects cost between $3,098 and $51,243 in 2026, with a national average near $27,091. Restoration scope runs $4-$7 per square foot (avg ~$5.50), and labor accounts for 50-70% of the total. Costs scale with fire class, smoke travel distance, water damage from suppression, and structural involvement. See our 2026 fire damage cost guide for full methodology.
National average
$27,091
Total 2026 fire damage restoration
Per sq ft (restoration)
$4-$7
Smoke, soot, water, selective repair
Labor share
50-70%
Of total restoration cost
| Scope | What it includes | 2026 price range |
|---|---|---|
| Remediation (cleanup) | Soot/smoke cleanup, HVAC decontamination, deodorization, water extraction | $4-$7 / sq ft ($3,098-$25,000 typical) |
| Structural repair | Drywall tear-out, framing replacement, roofing, electrical, plumbing | $1.50-$3 / sq ft drywall, $5,900-$12,800 roof |
| Contents restoration | Pack-out, ultrasonic cleaning, ozone chamber, textile/electronics | $200-$1,000 per item; $50-$100/lb removal |
| Full restoration (all scopes) | Complete remediation plus structural rebuild plus contents | $8,000-$51,243+ ($27,091 avg) |
Fire classification drives both residue type and cleaning protocol. Protein soot from a Class B grease fire is often more expensive to remediate than a larger Class A fire because the residue is harder to remove.
Wood, paper, cloth, furniture, most residential fires
Dry smoke residue — powdery, easier to vacuum
Cleanup scope
$4.00 - $5.50 / sq ft
Kitchen grease fires, oil, gasoline, solvents
Protein soot — invisible greasy film, hard to remove
Cleanup scope
$5.00 - $7.00 / sq ft
Wiring, outlets, appliances, HVAC failures, puffbacks
Wet smoke + acidic oil soot — aggressive corrosion
Cleanup scope
$5.50 - $7.50 / sq ft
Rare residential — industrial, machine shops, labs
Reactive metal residues, specialized hazmat protocols
Cleanup scope
Custom quote required
| Project size | Low | Expected | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single room (under 200 sq ft) | $800 | $2,500 | $9,500 |
| Multiple rooms (200-500 sq ft) | $3,098 | $8,000 | $14,000 |
| Whole floor (500-1,200 sq ft) | $8,000 | $18,000 | $25,000+ |
| Major structural (1,200-2,000 sq ft) | $15,000 | $27,091 | $51,243+ |
| Whole-home / total loss | $35,000 | $75,000 | $200,000+ |
Florida
$5,200 - $32,000
Hurricane-related fires, lightning strikes, hot-humid drying makes water mitigation urgent
North Carolina
$4,800 - $29,500
Winter furnace puffbacks, electrical fires during cold snaps; crawl space smoke spread
South Carolina
$4,500 - $28,000
Lightning-related fires, coastal wildfire risk, older brick homes with hidden smoke
Pricing anchored to 2026 national averages. See the full fire damage cost guide for source methodology and line-item breakdowns.
Call for a free fire damage assessment
IICRC S700-certified scope review, documented for your insurance adjuster
Fire risk is not uniform across Palm Build's service area. A Charlotte homeowner is five times more likely to experience a winter furnace puffback than a Palm Beach homeowner, but far less likely to deal with a hurricane-related fire event. Knowing the regional pattern helps you prioritize prevention and understand how your insurance might respond.
| Fire risk type | Florida | North Carolina | South Carolina | Insurance treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen grease fire | HIGH | HIGH | HIGH | Covered under standard HO-3. Protein soot often requires supplement claim as damage is under-scoped at initial inspection. |
| Electrical fire | MODERATE | MODERATE | MODERATE | Typically covered. Watch for exclusions on pre-existing wiring issues or code-compliance gaps in older homes. |
| HVAC/furnace puffback | LOW | HIGH | MODERATE | Usually covered. NC winter oil furnace incidents are common; insurers sometimes dispute cause. Keep service records. |
| Lightning strike fire | VERY HIGH | HIGH | VERY HIGH | FL and SC lead US in lightning density. Standard HO-3 covers; electrical surge exclusions sometimes apply to electronics. |
| Wildfire | LOW | MODERATE | MODERATE | Covered under standard HO-3. Brush fire and wildfire smoke intrusion are increasingly common in upstate SC and western NC. |
| Hurricane-related fire | HIGH | MODERATE | MODERATE | Fire damage from storm events is covered, but wind and water exclusions can complicate claims. Document cause carefully. |
Florida — The Lightning Capital
Florida has the highest US lightning density and frequent hurricane impacts. Electrical fires from storm damage, generator backfeed, and damaged wiring are common in the days and weeks after a storm. Hot-humid climate makes water mitigation from fire suppression urgent because the 24-48 hour mold window is even tighter. Document fire damage separately from wind damage for clean insurance claim paths.
North Carolina — Winter Puffback Season
Oil furnace puffbacks spike during January and February when furnaces run continuously. Electrical fires from auxiliary heating, dryer vents, and holiday lighting are concentrated November-February. Crawl space fires from damaged wiring are common in the older Metrolina housing stock. Regular furnace service records matter for insurance claims disputing cause.
South Carolina — Coastal & Upstate Split
Upstate SC sits in the southern Appalachian wildfire corridor; coastal SC combines lightning density with older brick housing stock that hides smoke in wall cavities. Tropical storm season brings both direct wind-fire events and secondary electrical fires from power surges. Palm Build coordinates with local fire marshals in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville areas.
Recognize the Warning Signs
After fire departments extinguish the fire, damage continues to spread. Quick identification helps restoration professionals prevent further damage to your home or business.
Charred wood, melted materials, or visible burn damage indicate direct flame contact. The extent of the damage determines whether materials can be cleaned and restored or need replacement.
Gray or black discoloration on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces shows where smoke traveled. Fire and smoke damage often extends far beyond the area where flames were present.
Fine black or oily particles on surfaces, furniture, and belongings. Soot residues are acidic and can permanently damage materials if not cleaned by restoration professionals promptly.
Persistent smoky smell indicates smoke particles have penetrated porous materials. Professional deodorization is needed to fully eliminate the odor from your home or business.
Acidic soot residues etch into surfaces quickly. Restoration professionals can prevent further damage by beginning cleanup immediately after the fire.
When disaster strikes your home or business, our team responds fast. We specialize in complete smoke cleanup, soot removal, and reconstruction—helping property owners recover quickly. Restoration professionals with IICRC certification handle every step.
Trained specialists with expertise in smoke cleanup, structural repairs, and content restoration for your home or business
We work directly with your insurance company for smooth claims
Immediate response to prevent further damage and start cleanup
24/7 availability for your home or business
Advanced techniques eliminate soot residues
Permanent removal of lingering smoke smell
Full structural repairs to pre-loss condition
Our 6-step process is designed for efficiency and thoroughness. From emergency response through complete repairs and reconstruction, we follow IICRC protocols to ensure your home or business is properly cleaned and restored.
Our 24/7 team arrives quickly to secure your home or business. Board-up and roof-tarping services prevent further damage from weather and vandalism.
Restoration professionals document the extent of the damage with photos and detailed reports. We work with your insurance company to support your claim.
After fire departments extinguish the fire, water damage often follows. We extract all standing water and dry structures to prevent mold growth.
Specialized equipment removes soot residues from surfaces, belongings, and HVAC systems. Fire and smoke damage extends far beyond the burn area.
Items that can be cleaned and restored undergo professional treatment. Air scrubbers and fogging eliminate smoke odors—not just mask them.
From minor structural damage to complete rebuilds, our team handles all repairs. Your property is returned to pre-loss condition.
Our trained technicians follow industry protocols that meet your insurance company's documentation requirements while ensuring complete restoration of your property.
Quick response minimizes damage to your home or business.
Industrial-grade tools remove soot residues and smoke particles fast.
Many items can be cleaned and restored by our specialists.
We handle documentation for your insurance company.
*Timeline varies based on the extent of the damage. Minor smoke damage may resolve in 1-2 weeks, while major structural damage can take 2-3 months for complete repairs and reconstruction.
Professional repairs and restoration deliver results that DIY methods can't match. Protect your home or business with expert help from trained specialists.
Our rapid response teams are available around the clock to prevent further damage and begin recovery immediately.
Specialized equipment removes soot residues from all surfaces. Without quick cleanup, acidic soot can permanently etch materials.
Permanent odor removal using thermal fogging, ozone treatment, and HEPA air scrubbers. We eliminate smoke smell—not just mask it.
Many belongings can be cleaned and restored by our specialists. We carefully handle furniture, documents, and valuables.
Complete repairs and reconstruction to return your property to pre-loss condition. We handle structural damage of any scale.
We work directly with your insurance company throughout the claims process, providing documentation and supporting your claim.
IICRC certified technicians trained in the latest techniques. Our restoration professionals follow strict safety protocols.
We understand the stress every property owner faces after a fire. Clear communication and compassionate service throughout recovery.
"They responded within 30 minutes of our call after a kitchen fire. Professional, thorough, and our home was restored better than before."
Michael R., Miami
Don't let the damage spread. Our expert team is ready to help you recover quickly with professional repairs and restoration for your home or business.
Our emergency teams respond quickly to assess damage and start mitigation immediately.
We work directly with all major insurance providers to streamline claims and maximize your coverage benefits.
IICRC certified technicians trained in smoke cleanup, soot removal, and complete structural reconstruction.
See the dramatic difference our professional fire restoration services make. Drag the slider to reveal the transformation.
Need fire or smoke damage restoration?
Get a Free EstimatePreparation is your best defense against fire damage. Learn how to protect your property and what to do when fire strikes.
Establish and practice an evacuation plan for your home or business, including meeting points and escape routes.
Keep an inventory of personal property with photos. Your insurance company will need this documentation.
Keep important documents in a fireproof safe or create digital backups. This simplifies the claims process.
Keep contacts for fire departments, your insurance company, and a trusted restoration company ready.
Fire and smoke damage extends far beyond the area directly affected by flames
Acidic soot residues can permanently etch surfaces if not cleaned within hours
Water damage from firefighting often requires as much attention as the fire itself
Up to 90% of belongings can be cleaned and restored with quick professional response
Proper odor removal requires specialized equipment—DIY methods only mask the smell
Install smoke detectors on every level of your home
Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries annually
Keep fire extinguishers accessible and know how to use them
Create and practice a fire escape plan with your family
Our teams are standing by to begin cleanup after fire departments extinguish the fire. Quick action prevents further damage and protects what can be cleaned and restored.
Understanding the Invisible Threat
While flames cause the most visible destruction, smoke travels through your entire property—through HVAC ducts, wall cavities, and porous materials. Understanding the type of smoke residue in your home determines the cleaning approach.
From fast-burning, high-temperature fires
Dry smoke comes from fires that burn quickly at high temperatures—often paper, wood, or structural fires with good oxygen supply. The residue is powdery and non-smeary, which makes it easier to clean from hard surfaces but tricky on porous materials where it can settle deep into fibers.
HEPA vacuuming followed by dry sponge cleaning. Porous materials may require deep extraction.
Smoke particles are microscopic—as small as 0.1 microns. When your HVAC system runs during or after a fire, it pulls smoke through ductwork and distributes it to every room in your property. This is why rooms far from the fire source often have smoke damage. Professional HVAC cleaning and sealing is essential during restoration. Do not run your HVAC until it has been professionally inspected.
This type of water and smoke cross-contamination is why we often coordinate water restoration alongside fire cleanup—especially when firefighting water has entered the duct system.
Smoke residue often settles in places you can't see, causing ongoing odor issues and gradual material degradation. Professional restoration teams know to check these hidden locations:
If smoke has reached your crawl space, specialized crawl space cleanup may be needed to prevent long-term odor and moisture issues.
Smoke odor is caused by actual volatile organic compound (VOC) molecules embedded in porous materials — drywall paper, carpet pad, upholstery foam, insulation, wood framing. Masking sprays don't touch these molecules; they just add a second odor to the first one. Professional odor removal works at the molecular level, either by breaking the odor molecules apart (ozone, hydroxyl, thermal fog) or sealing them in place (encapsulation). Most real projects use multiple methods in sequence.
Mechanism: Oxidizes odor molecules by adding a third oxygen atom to volatile organic compounds, breaking them apart at the subatomic level.
Pros
Most powerful; penetrates same pathways smoke traveled; effective on deeply embedded odors
Cons
Unsafe for occupied spaces; vacated treatment zone required; kills plants, degrades rubber
Best for
Vacated homes, commercial spaces, post-cleaning odor phase
$400-$800 per treatment
Mechanism: UV light generates hydroxyl radicals in ambient humidity; radicals break down odor molecules through oxidation but at lower reactivity than ozone.
Pros
Safe for occupied spaces; runs continuously without vacating; no residue
Cons
Slower than ozone; less effective on deeply penetrated heavy odors alone
Best for
Occupied homes, hospitals, schools, phased restoration projects
$500-$1,200 per week of continuous deployment
Mechanism: Deodorizing solvent is heated to vapor-phase particles 0.5-50 microns in size — the same particle-size distribution as smoke. The vapor travels identical pathways, neutralizing odor where smoke settled.
Pros
Reaches inside wall cavities, HVAC ducts, and upholstery interiors; very fast
Cons
Must be applied AFTER chemical cleaning; can bond residue if applied too early
Best for
Post-cleaning odor phase; structures with extensive hidden smoke penetration
$200-$600 per room
Mechanism: A specialized odor-blocking primer (typically shellac-based) creates a physical barrier between the porous substrate and the indoor air, preventing odor molecules from off-gassing.
Pros
Cheap; prevents odor recurrence; accepts normal paint after curing
Cons
Does NOT remove odor — only contains it. Fails if substrate is not cleaned first.
Best for
Final step after complete cleaning; reconstruction-phase wall prep
$1.50-$3 per sq ft
| Attribute | Ozone | Hydroxyl | Thermal fog | Encapsulation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Oxidation via O₃ | Oxidation via ·OH | Pathway matching | Physical barrier |
| Occupied space safe | ❌ NO | ✅ YES | ❌ NO | ✅ YES |
| Treats embedded odor | ✅ Deeply | ✅ Gradually | ✅ Via pathway match | ❌ Contains only |
| Fast (single session) | ✅ Hours | ❌ Days-weeks | ✅ Hours | ✅ Hours |
| Typical cost | $400-$800 | $500-$1,200/wk | $200-$600/rm | $1.50-$3/sq ft |
| When to use | Post-clean, vacated | Occupied projects | Post-clean phase | Pre-reconstruction |
Why DIY odor removal almost always fails
Candles, air fresheners, vinegar bowls, and baking soda work on mild surface odors. They cannot reach the smoke molecules embedded half a millimeter deep in drywall paper or several inches into carpet pad. After a fire, smoke penetrates wherever air moves — into HVAC ducts, behind outlet covers, inside wall cavities, under baseboards, and into the upholstery foam of every soft surface in the home. Treating the visible surface does nothing to the hidden reservoirs. A week later, when the DIY spray wears off, the smoke odor returns unchanged. Professional molecular-level treatment is the only permanent solution.
The Science Behind Odor Removal
Candles, air fresheners, and store-bought sprays can't eliminate smoke odor—they only cover it temporarily. Smoke molecules are embedded in materials at a microscopic level. Professional deodorization destroys these molecules rather than masking them.
Creates a heated fog that penetrates the same crevices and porous materials that smoke did. The deodorizing agent bonds with smoke molecules and neutralizes them at the source. Especially effective for structural smoke damage in walls and framing.
Uses UV light to create hydroxyl radicals—the same molecules that naturally clean the atmosphere. Safe to use while people, pets, and plants are present. Breaks down smoke odor molecules without leaving any residue or harmful byproducts.
Generates ozone (O3) that oxidizes and destroys odor-causing molecules. Extremely effective but requires the space to be completely unoccupied—ozone is harmful to breathe. The area must be ventilated thoroughly before re-entry.
Industrial-grade HEPA filtration captures smoke particles down to 0.3 microns. While not a deodorizer itself, removing airborne soot particles significantly reduces ongoing odor and prevents re-contamination of cleaned surfaces.
Complete smoke odor elimination typically takes 1-4 weeks depending on severity. Minor smoke damage (kitchen fire, small area) may clear in a few days. Severe whole-house smoke damage can require multiple treatment cycles over several weeks. Our team monitors progress with odor detection equipment and won't consider the job done until the smell is completely gone—not just reduced.
Smoke damage isn't just cosmetic. Fire residue contains a mix of carcinogenic compounds, acidic particles, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds that continue to off-gas, corrode, and react for weeks or months after the fire is out. Understanding what's actually in post-fire residue is why professional remediation exists — and why DIY "clean and repaint" approaches frequently fail inspection and create lingering health hazards.
What it is
Complex organic compounds formed when carbon-based materials burn at high temperatures. Several are EPA-classified carcinogens.
Where it ends up
Embedded in soot particles, drywall, insulation, upholstery foam, and HVAC duct interior surfaces after any wood or plastic fire.
Why it matters
Linked to skin, lung, and bladder cancer risk with prolonged exposure. Children and elderly are higher risk. Do not vacuum without HEPA.
What it is
Gas-phase carbon compounds that evaporate from burned plastics, paint, and synthetic materials. Primary source of lingering smoke odor.
Where it ends up
Off-gassing from damaged materials for weeks or months post-fire. Re-activated by humidity and temperature changes.
Why it matters
Headaches, respiratory irritation, long-term exposure linked to various health impacts. Source of "the smell came back" complaints after cleanup.
What it is
Chloride, sulfate, and nitrate compounds formed when PVC, upholstery, and some plastics burn. Deposit as acidic residue.
Where it ends up
Metal surfaces (copper pipes, electronics, stainless steel), grout lines, marble, painted finishes — anywhere soot settled.
Why it matters
Causes progressive corrosion starting within 72 hours. Electronics failures may not appear for weeks post-fire. Metal pitting becomes irreversible.
What it is
Lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury released from burning paint (older homes), electronics, treated wood, and certain plastics.
Where it ends up
Accumulated in soot residue, particularly on flat surfaces and in HVAC ducts. Highest in older pre-1978 homes with lead paint.
Why it matters
Toxic via inhalation or ingestion. Children at highest risk for lead exposure. Professional remediation uses lead-safe practices when triggered.
What it is
Pre-1980 homes may contain asbestos in insulation, joint compound, floor tile, and HVAC duct wrap. Disturbed during fire.
Where it ends up
Airborne after fire damage to older construction materials. Attic insulation, basement pipe wrap, and floor tile adhesive are common sources.
Why it matters
Known carcinogen. Fire damage to pre-1980 homes requires asbestos testing and licensed abatement if present. Cannot be handled by standard crews.
Sources & professional guidance
The EPA, CDC, and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) all publish guidance on post-fire residue hazards. IICRC S700 incorporates these sources into the certified fire restoration protocol. Palm Build's fire restoration crews wear full PPE (Tyvek, P100 respirators, nitrile gloves) during soot handling because the cumulative exposure risk is real. Homeowners should not attempt DIY soot cleanup in any meaningful volume — particularly in pre-1980 homes where asbestos and lead paint may also be involved. See our mold remediation guide for the related water-damage-after-fire risk, and our firefighting water damage guide for the contamination pattern suppression water creates.
Your Recovery Roadmap
Understanding how long fire restoration takes helps you plan and reduces uncertainty. Tap each phase to see what happens and when.
Timelines vary based on damage severity. A small kitchen fire may complete restoration in 3-4 weeks. Severe structural damage can take 4-6 months. Your restoration team will provide a detailed timeline after the initial assessment. Need help with the reconstruction phase? Our team handles everything from framing to finish work.
One of the biggest surprises for homeowners after a fire is how much of their belongings can actually be professionally restored. With fast response, up to 90% of contents are typically recoverable — a fraction of the replacement cost and, for personal items, the only path to truly replacing what was lost. Palm Build's contents restoration process is a structured pack-out → clean → store → return workflow coordinated with your insurance adjuster from day one.
Room-by-room triage with insurance
Each room is inventoried, photographed, and items tagged with one of three labels: restorable, document and discard, or specialty conservation required.
Itemized pack-out with barcode tracking
Restorable items are packed into labeled containers, barcoded, and transported to the contents restoration facility. Every item is traceable back to its original room.
Material-specific cleaning at the facility
Each item is matched to the right cleaning protocol — ultrasonic for electronics and hard goods, ozone chamber for textiles, conservation partner for fine art. See the matrix below.
Climate-controlled storage during rebuild
Cleaned contents stay in secure, climate-controlled storage while the structure is being restored. Standard storage is typically 30-90 days; longer on major rebuilds.
Return and placement
Once the structure is restored and deodorized, contents are returned and placed in their original rooms. Final walkthrough documents successful return to pre-loss condition.
| Material | Examples | Method | Salvage rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Laptops, TVs, gaming consoles, audio equipment, printers | Ultrasonic cleaning at 40 kHz in pH-neutral solution; anti-corrosion treatment | 80-95% if cleaned within 7 days; drops sharply after corrosion sets in |
| Textiles & clothing | Wardrobes, bed linens, drapery, upholstery fabric | Ozone chamber pre-treatment → specialized dry cleaning → final ozone pass | 75-90% depending on fiber type and smoke category |
| Books & documents | Personal libraries, photo albums, vital records, artwork on paper | Freeze-drying for wet items; gentle HEPA vacuum and specialized page cleaning | 70-95% for dry items; water-saturated items require immediate freeze-drying |
| Fine art & antiques | Paintings, sculptures, rare furniture, musical instruments | Museum-grade conservation partners; controlled environment cleaning | 60-95% with conservator involvement; highly item-specific |
| Hard goods (metal/ceramic/glass) | Cookware, dishware, small appliances, decorative items, hardware | Ultrasonic cleaning → chemical rinse → polish and re-packaging | 90-98% — hardest to damage, easiest to restore |
| Food, medications, cosmetics | Refrigerator/pantry contents, prescription drugs, skincare products | NOT SALVAGED — all documented for insurance replacement | 0% — safety protocols require replacement regardless of visible damage |
Saving What Matters Most
One of the biggest concerns after a fire is your personal belongings. The good news: with quick professional response, up to 90% of contents can be saved. Our pack-out process carefully inventories, transports, and cleans your items at our specialized facility—protecting them from further soot damage while structural work is underway.
Six steps from fire marshal release to final supplement approval, with the exact phrases adjusters expect to hear. For state-specific deadlines and the full cost methodology see our 2026 fire damage cost guide.
The fire department releases the scene with an incident report that documents cause, origin, and time. Insurance adjusters anchor the entire claim to this report. Request a copy the same day; if not yet filed, ask for the incident number and the shift commander's name. Do NOT enter the property until cleared. Fire marshal release is your proof that mitigation is allowed to begin.
What to say to your adjuster
"I have the fire marshal incident report number [####]. The cause of origin is documented and the property was released for mitigation at [time]."
Most homeowner policies REQUIRE you to mitigate further damage to preserve coverage. Waiting 3-5 days for the adjuster to arrive before board-up, water extraction, or drying is the #1 reason claims are partially denied. Your restoration company can document the pre-mitigation state with photos and video before starting work. Save the fire marshal clearance as the trigger for authorizing mitigation.
What to say to your adjuster
"Mitigation began at [time] to meet my duty to protect. Pre-mitigation photos and fire marshal report are on file. The restoration company is documenting daily progress."
Before any pack-out or cleaning, photograph every item in every room from multiple angles. For high-value items (electronics, art, jewelry, instruments) create close-up shots with visible damage. Your insurance will use this inventory to assess contents coverage. Items discarded without documentation often become disputed claim amounts later.
What to say to your adjuster
"I have a complete photo and video inventory of all contents before any movement. The restoration company has a detailed itemized list."
Most HO-3 policies include Additional Living Expense (ALE) or Loss of Use coverage that pays for your hotel, food, and incidental costs while the home is uninhabitable. This is a separate line from structure and contents. Open ALE at the same time as the main claim. Keep hotel receipts, restaurant tabs that exceed your normal grocery budget, and rental car costs. ALE typically runs 12-24 months max.
What to say to your adjuster
"I'm requesting ALE coverage effective [date]. I have hotel reservations through [date] at [location] and will submit expenses weekly."
Many policies include a code-upgrade rider (typically 10% of dwelling coverage) that pays for bringing the property up to current building code during reconstruction. After a fire, older homes frequently need electrical, plumbing, or structural upgrades that weren't required pre-loss. Ask your adjuster specifically about this rider. A denied code upgrade supplement is one of the most common reasons rebuilds run over-budget.
What to say to your adjuster
"I'm activating the Ordinance or Law coverage endorsement. My contractor identified [specific items] that require code-compliant upgrade during rebuild."
Debris removal (burned materials, contaminated insulation, damaged drywall) is typically covered as a separate line under "debris removal" or as a percentage add-on to dwelling coverage (often 5%). Standard initial estimates often underbid debris because the full demolition scope isn't known until cleaning begins. Request a supplement if the initial debris allowance is exhausted.
What to say to your adjuster
"The debris removal scope exceeds the initial estimate. Restoration company documentation shows [volume] of damaged material at [rate]. Please supplement the debris line."
| Coverage category | Typical amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Structure (Dwelling) | 100% of rebuild cost up to policy limit | Standard on HO-3 / HO-5; verify replacement cost vs actual cash value |
| Contents (Personal Property) | 50-75% of dwelling coverage | Typically reimbursed at actual cash value unless replacement cost rider added |
| ALE / Loss of Use | 20-30% of dwelling coverage | Hotel, food differential, rental car while home is uninhabitable. Time-capped. |
| Debris Removal | 5% of dwelling or line item | Often initially under-scoped; supplements common during demolition phase |
| Code Upgrade (Ordinance/Law) | 10% of dwelling (optional rider) | Verify your policy has this; not always automatic on HO-3 |
| Landscaping & trees | $500-$1,500 per tree, up to 5% of dwelling | Fire suppression damage to trees and landscaping often forgotten on claims |
| Emergency board-up and roof tarp | $1,800 |
| Water extraction (fire suppression cleanup) | $2,200 |
| HEPA air scrubbers and containment (14 days) | $2,800 |
| Structural soot removal and chemical cleaning | $4,500 |
| HVAC duct cleaning and filter replacement | $1,100 |
| Thermal fogging and ozone treatment | $900 |
| Contents pack-out and ultrasonic cleaning | $3,200 |
| Selective demo (kitchen cabinets, drywall, flooring) | $3,400 |
| Reconstruction (cabinets, drywall, paint, flooring) | $4,800 |
| ALE (14 nights hotel + food differential) | $2,100 |
| Total claim value | $26,800 |
Navigating Insurance After a Fire
The insurance process can feel overwhelming after a fire. Here's a quick overview of what to do, common pitfalls to avoid, and how we help.
Our team documents the full extent of damage and communicates with your adjuster so you don't have to navigate it alone.
Understanding the Damage
Fire causes multiple types of damage that require different restoration approaches. Understanding the extent of the damage helps property owners know what to expect during recovery.
The most visible form of damage where flames directly contacted materials. Charred wood, melted plastics, and burned belongings often require removal and reconstruction.
Fire and smoke damage extends far beyond the burn area. Smoke particles travel through HVAC systems and penetrate porous materials throughout your home or business.
After fire departments extinguish the fire, water damage often causes more destruction than the flames. Gallons of water soak into floors, walls, and belongings.
After firefighters extinguish the fire, they ensure the structure is safe to enter. You may not be allowed back until the fire marshal clears the property.
The water used to extinguish the fire must be extracted quickly to prevent mold growth and additional structural damage to your property.
Restoration professionals evaluate the extent of the damage to determine what can be cleaned and restored versus what needs replacement.
Board-up and tarping services protect your home or business from weather, vandalism, and additional deterioration while restoration work proceeds.
Structural damage from fire can compromise the safety of your home or business. Our certified professionals assess load-bearing walls, roof integrity, and foundation stability before restoration work begins. For extensive structural repair, our reconstruction team handles everything from framing to finish work.
Professional Restoration
Many items you might assume are lost can actually be saved by restoration professionals. Understanding what can be restored helps property owners make informed decisions during the claims process.
Restoration professionals carefully evaluate every item and surface. The extent of the damage determines whether belongings can be cleaned and restored or need replacement.
Items that can be salvaged undergo specialized cleaning processes. Soot, smoke residue, and odors are removed using techniques not available to property owners.
Each restored item is inspected to ensure it meets pre-loss condition standards. Items that cannot be properly cleaned and restored are documented for insurance claims.
Success depends on the extent of the damage and how quickly restoration professionals begin work.
Safety concerns and contamination typically make these items unrestorable.
Professional restoration companies have specialized equipment, training, and experience that allow them to save items that would otherwise be discarded. This often results in significant savings compared to replacement costs.
Trained in the latest restoration techniques and safety protocols
We work with your insurance company to document and maximize your claim
Real Palm Build response work — emergency board-up, soot removal, smoke odor treatment, contents restoration, and full rebuild across Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Every project follows IICRC S700 protocols with documented scope reviews.
Free Self-Assessment
Answer a few quick questions to understand the urgency of your situation. Every property owner deserves to know how to prevent further damage to their home or business.
This self-assessment is for informational purposes only. A professional inspection by restoration professionals is the only way to accurately assess the extent of the damage.
In-Depth Guides
Each guide covers a specific aspect of fire and smoke damage restoration in detail. Find the information most relevant to your situation.
Complete guide to smoke residue types, surface-specific cleaning techniques, and what to expect from professional soot removal.
Dry chemical sponge, wet chemical cleaning, and dry-ice blasting. IICRC S700 certified protocols for every smoke category.
Emergency property securing after a fire—board-up, tarping, and vandalism prevention to protect your home or business.
Deep dive into professional deodorization: thermal fogging, hydroxyl generators, ozone treatment, and HEPA air scrubbing.
The most common residential fire type. Grease fire cleanup, appliance replacement, and complete kitchen rebuild guidance.
Engineer-coordinated char depth assessment, load-bearing integrity, code-compliant rebuild. $15K-$200K+ typical scope.
Pack-out, ultrasonic cleaning, ozone chamber, climate-controlled storage. Save up to 90% of your belongings.
NADCA-aligned duct cleaning, coil cleaning, and full system decontamination. Stops smoke recirculation whole-home.
Business-specific fire restoration including business interruption planning, compliance requirements, and large-loss coordination.
Related Restoration Services
Fire losses involve water damage from suppression, contents recovery, insurance claims, and structural rebuilds. Use these connected guides to keep every part of your recovery aligned.
Fire suppression creates secondary water damage. Coordinate extraction and drying alongside smoke cleanup.
Smoke-damaged belongings, electronics, and documents can often be professionally cleaned and restored.
Clothing, drapes, and upholstery exposed to smoke and soot need specialized cleaning to remove odor and residue.
Navigate fire damage claims with proper documentation, loss inventory, and adjuster coordination.
After cleanup, transition into structural rebuild — framing, drywall, electrical, and finishes.
Commercial fire losses require business continuity planning, HVAC decontamination, and phased re-occupancy.
Palm Build Tools
Estimate costs, timelines, insurance exposure, and damage severity before your first contractor call — no signup, no lead gate.
Upload photos of fire or smoke damage and get an instant AI triage report with severity flags, safety concerns, and suggested next steps.
Firefighting water causes secondary water damage. Estimate extraction, drying, and rebuild costs that often accompany fire losses.
Fire claims involve complex ACV vs RCV calculations, content inventories, and supplemental filings. Estimate claim-worthiness and out-of-pocket exposure.
Fire restoration spans demolition, decontamination, rebuild, and occupancy. See realistic phase durations and identify what can run in parallel.
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Expert answers about smoke cleanup, restoration, and the recovery process for your home or business.
Fire damage restoration typically costs $3,098 to $51,243 in 2026, with a national average around $27,091. Per-square-foot restoration scope runs $4 to $7 (avg ~$5.50), and labor accounts for 50-70% of the total. Minor smoke damage can be under $10,000, moderate room-level fires run $8,000-$25,000+, and major structural fires with full reconstruction start at $51,000 and often reach six figures. See our 2026 fire damage cost guide for line-item pricing and state-specific details.
Still have questions about 2026 cost & iicrc s700?
Fire and smoke damage continues even after fire departments extinguish the fire. Soot residues cause ongoing damage to surfaces and belongings. Our restoration professionals respond immediately to prevent further damage.
For your home or business
Professional cleanup of soot residues
Permanent removal, not masking
Complete structural restoration
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