Fire and smoke restoration addresses the three kinds of damage a fire leaves behind: water from firefighting, soot and smoke residue, and odor. Work starts after the fire department releases the property and includes securing the building, extracting water, cleaning residue, controlling odor and planning repairs.
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Even a small kitchen fire can leave soot on walls and ceilings, smoke odor throughout a home and water damage from extinguishing efforts. Larger fires add structural concerns and extensive debris.
Fire restoration typically starts once the fire department has released the property. It focuses on securing the building, removing water, cleaning residue and planning repairs.
01
Water damage after a fire
Why is there water damage after a fire? Firefighting water can soak floors, walls and the levels below the fire. Left untreated, it creates the same drying and mold concerns as any other water loss — on top of smoke and soot damage.
02
Before you go back in
- Do not enter until the fire department says it is safe
- Do not turn on electrical systems that were affected
- Do not try to wipe soot off walls — it can smear and set
- Do not eat food that was exposed to heat, smoke or soot
Not sure how serious it is?
A professional assessment shows exactly where the water went and what it will take to dry and restore your property.
Frequently asked questions
Can smoke odor be removed?
In many cases, yes — through cleaning, removal of affected materials and odor-control methods. The approach depends on what burned and how far smoke travelled.
Do you handle the repairs after a fire?
Where reconstruction is part of our services, we can plan repairs after cleanup. See our reconstruction page for details.