Who to Call for Smoke Damage Restoration

Call a smoke restoration company after a house fire

A man cleaning mold off the wall
Photo: Vladimir Nadtochiy / 500px / 500Px Plus / Getty Images
A man cleaning mold off the wall
Photo: Vladimir Nadtochiy / 500px / 500Px Plus / Getty Images
Highlights
  • After a fire, hire a smoke restoration company to assess damage, remove soot and odors, and restore affected areas.

  • Key cost factors include scope of damage, number of treatments, and add-ons like duct cleaning and deodorizing.

  • Thorough remediation helps protect your home’s structure and indoor air quality while supporting smoother insurance claims.

  • Choose pros who respond quickly and can coordinate documentation for approvals and timelines.

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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are wondering who to call for smoke damage restoration, contact a smoke restoration or fire damage restoration company. These specialists have the tools and training to act quickly for safety and to prevent further damage. Hiring a pro also streamlines insurance documentation and the claims process

Benefits of Hiring a Smoke Restoration Company for Smoke Damage Restoration

Smoke restoration companies deliver a full-home inspection, comprehensive remediation, and faster timelines after a fire. Their specialized training and equipment help them find hidden and structural issues that generalists miss. Many homeowners insurance policies cover smoke remediation for covered events, minus your deductible. Pros also manage insurer documentation to help move approvals along.

  • Full-home inspection for smoke, ash, and hidden damage

  • Single team manages inspection through replacement work

  • Faster mobilization on tight post-fire schedules

  • Professional equipment for soot and odor removal

  • Identifies structural issues a generalist may miss

  • Coordinates insurance documents and approvals

  • Replaces unsalvageable drywall, flooring, and trim

  • Seals HVAC ducts to stop soot spread

  • Performs deep cleaning and odor treatments

  • Plans follow-up treatments for persistent odors

Can I Hire a Handyperson for Smoke Damage Restoration?

Some handypeople offer smoke cleanup, but they generally lack full remediation tools and training. For safety and completeness, specialists are better at eliminating stubborn odors and spotting hidden structural damage. Non-specialists risk incomplete cleanup, lingering smells, and future issues. If the scope is extensive or insurance is involved, a dedicated restoration team is the right call. Restoration crews also offer stronger emergency response and availability. If you need help with smoke or fire damage, you might want to consider a fire restoration pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and thoroughly.

How Do Pros Get Rid of Smoke Damage?

Pros follow a structured process to remove damage and odors and restore your home efficiently.

  1. Remove ash and materials damaged beyond repair.

  2. Replace unsalvageable drywall, flooring, and trim.

  3. Seal HVAC ducts to prevent soot and odor spread.

  4. Clean soot and visible smoke damage across surfaces.

  5. Make necessary HVAC repairs or replacements.

  6. Perform ozone treatments to break down odor-causing residue.

  7. Schedule additional ozone and deep cleanings if odors persist.

How Much Does Smoke Damage Restoration Cost?

Smoke damage restoration averages $4,000, with a range from $250 to $10,000 or more based on damage extent and remediation methods. Small kitchen fires generally cost less than whole-home restoration. Total price can also include water damage work, soot removal, damaged item removal, duct cleaning, furniture deodorizing, thermal fogging, and ozone treatment.

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