Damage guide
Smoke damage
Smoke can travel far beyond the area that burned, including from wildfires or a neighboring property. Residue and odor can affect surfaces, HVAC systems and belongings.
Immediate safety considerations
- • Ventilate only if outdoor air quality is safe.
- • People with respiratory conditions should limit exposure.
- • Avoid wiping soot from surfaces before documenting — it can smear and set in.
If anyone is in danger, call 911.
How to document the damage
- Only document damage once it is safe to be in the area.
- Take wide photos of each room, then close-ups of specific damage.
- Record a short video walkthrough narrating what you see.
- Write down the date and time you discovered the damage.
- Keep damaged items until your insurer says you can discard them, when it is safe and sanitary to do so.
- Save receipts for emergency supplies, temporary repairs and lodging.
When to contact your insurer
Report smoke damage to your insurer and describe the source if known. Policies vary on how smoke-only damage is handled.
We can't tell you whether a loss is covered — only your policy and insurer can.
Professionals who may help
Common terms
- Soot
- Fine black particles from incomplete combustion that can stain and corrode surfaces.
Questions to ask potential contractors
- • Are you licensed for this work in my state or city? Can I see the license number?
- • Do you carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance? Can you provide certificates?
- • Will you provide a written, itemized estimate before starting?
- • Who will be doing the work — your employees or subcontractors?
- • What are your payment terms? (Be cautious of large upfront payments.)
- • Will you obtain any required permits?
- • Can you provide references from recent, similar jobs?
- • What will you need from me to support documentation for my insurer?