Wildfire smoke and ash can damage homes that never burned, leaving soot, odor and fine particles inside, in air ducts and in fabrics. Wildfire smoke damage cleanup removes ash and soot, cleans the air system and deodorizes the home.
Ash from burned homes and cars can contain hazardous materials, so professionals use protective equipment and HEPA filtration.
When you need wildfire smoke damage cleanup
- Ash or soot inside after a nearby wildfire
- A smoke smell that will not go away
- Discolored air filters and vents
- Irritated eyes or throat indoors
What the job involves
- Inspect the home, attic and air system.
- HEPA vacuum ash and soot.
- Clean surfaces and fabrics.
- Clean air ducts and replace filters.
- Deodorize and check air quality.
What affects the cost
Sifixit does not quote prices, because every job is different. These are the things that move the price up or down, so you can compare quotes fairly:
- Amount of ash and soot inside
- Air duct cleaning
- Soft items cleaned or replaced
- Home size
Insurance
Many homeowners policies cover smoke and ash damage from a nearby wildfire, even when the home did not burn. Document the damage and keep cleaning receipts.
Licensing by state
Rules differ a lot between states. Here is who licenses this work in the states Sifixit covers most. Always ask for the license number and check it with the state.
- Most states do not license water damage or fire restoration companies. Ask about IICRC certification, insurance and references instead.
- Electricians and HVAC technicians who repair or clean systems after smoke are licensed in every state Sifixit covers.
Read our guides: wildfire smoke damage and Los Angeles wildfire ash cleanup.
Local help for wildfire smoke damage cleanup
- Fire damage restoration in Colorado Springs, CO
- Fire damage restoration in Irvine, CA
- Fire damage restoration in Los Angeles, CA
- Fire damage restoration in San Diego, CA
- Fire damage restoration in Dallas, TX
- Fire damage restoration in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Quick answers: wildfire smoke damage cleanup
Can wildfire smoke damage a house that did not burn?
Yes. Smoke and ash can leave soot, odor and particles inside.
Does insurance cover wildfire smoke damage?
Many policies do, even if the home did not burn.
Should air ducts be cleaned after wildfire smoke?
If ash or smoke entered the system, yes.
Is wildfire ash dangerous?
It can irritate lungs and may contain hazardous materials.
Who cleans wildfire smoke damage?
A fire damage restoration company. Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
Looking for wildfire smoke damage cleanup? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see the National Fire Protection Association.
This site is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service contractors. All contractors are independent and this site does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on this site.
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