The two halves of a fire claim
A fire claim has a structural half, which covers demolition, framing, systems, finishes and code upgrades, and a smoke half. The smoke half is where most disagreements happen. Soot travels through ductwork and wall cavities, and the odor settles into insulation, carpet pad and porous surfaces far from the burned room.
Cleaning versus replacing
Carriers often propose cleaning surfaces and items that may need replacement. Cleaning can work on hard, sealed surfaces. It works far less well on drywall that has absorbed acidic soot, on electronics, or on items that keep releasing odor. We document each surface and item, test where appropriate, and price both options when the right answer is genuinely in doubt.
What we include in a fire valuation
- Board-up, fencing and emergency services.
- Demolition and debris removal, which often has its own limit.
- Structural rebuild priced to current code for your city.
- HVAC cleaning or replacement, attic insulation and electrical inspection.
- Contents inventory support and pricing.
- Additional living expense documentation when the home is unlivable.
Arizona considerations
Extreme summer heat can make an opened, unconditioned house deteriorate quickly after a fire. Temporary protection and climate control are often reasonable mitigation costs. For wildfire losses, see our page on wildfire and ash claims.
Questions about fire & smoke damage appraisal
Can appraisal value my contents after a fire?
Yes, if the policy’s appraisal clause covers the disputed contents and the disagreement is about value. Inventories with ages and purchase information make that work much stronger.
Is smoke odor damage covered if nothing burned in my room?
Smoke damage is usually part of a covered fire loss even in unburned rooms. The question is usually how much cleaning or replacement is needed, which is exactly what appraisal values.
Who pays for temporary housing during repairs?
Additional living expense coverage, if your policy has it. Keep every receipt. It is usually handled outside the structure appraisal.