Fire & Smoke Damage Insurance Claims

A fire can devastate your home and your life. The insurance claims process for fire damage is one of the most complex because it involves multiple coverage categories — structural repair, smoke and soot remediation, contents replacement, additional living expenses, and potentially code upgrades.

Insurance companies often undervalue fire claims by focusing only on the most visible structural damage while minimizing or ignoring the full extent of smoke contamination, personal property losses, and displacement costs.

• Framing, drywall, roofing, siding
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• HVAC systems and ductwork
• Windows, doors, trim, and finishes
• Flooring, cabinetry, and countertops
• Insulation replacement

Smoke doesn't respect walls. It travels through the entire structure via HVAC systems, wall cavities, and natural air currents. Thorough smoke damage claims include:

• Surface cleaning and decontamination throughout the home
• Soot removal from walls, ceilings, and contents
• HVAC cleaning and potential replacement
• Odor remediation (thermal fogging, ozone treatment, hydroxyl generators)
• Insulation replacement in affected areas
• Cleaning vs. replacement determinations for affected materials

Firefighting water causes significant secondary damage that must be addressed:

• Water extraction and structural drying
• Damaged flooring, drywall, and insulation from water
• Mold prevention measures
• Content damage from water exposure

• Furniture, electronics, appliances
• Clothing, bedding, linens
• Kitchen items, food, cleaning supplies
• Specialized items (art, collections, jewelry, tools)
• Holiday decorations, garage storage, children's items

• Temporary housing costs (hotel, rental)
• Meal expenses above normal spending
• Storage costs for undamaged belongings
• Pet boarding
• Increased commute costs
• Moving expenses (out and back in)

If repairs require bringing the property up to current building codes, your policy's ordinance and law coverage may apply. This is frequently overlooked by carriers.

• Smoke damage is underestimated — Carriers often only account for visible soot, not smoke that has permeated walls, insulation, and HVAC systems
• Contents are undervalued — The carrier may depreciate items heavily or undercount what was lost
• ALE is limited too quickly — Carriers may pressure you to return before the home is genuinely safe and repairs are complete
• Matching not addressed — Partial repairs should match the rest of the home
• Code upgrades are ignored — Older homes often need upgrades during reconstruction

Fire claims require someone who understands both construction and insurance. With a background in general contracting, we know what it actually takes to rebuild — and we know where carriers commonly cut corners in their estimates.

We review every aspect of a fire claim: structural, smoke, contents, ALE, and code compliance. Our goal is to make sure nothing gets missed and that the settlement reflects the actual cost to restore your property and your life.

If you've experienced a fire, schedule a free consultation. We'll review your situation and help you understand the full scope of what your claim should cover.