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Damage Type Guide
Fire & Smoke Damage Claims
Fire claims involve more than just the burned area. Smoke travels throughout your home, and water damage from firefighting adds to the claim.
Safety First - Do Not Enter
Never enter a fire-damaged building until the fire department clears it. Even after flames are out, there may be structural hazards, hot spots, and toxic fumes. Your safety is more important than any claim.
Types of Smoke Damage
Different fires create different types of smoke residue. Each requires different cleaning approaches.
Dry Smoke
From: Fast-burning fires with plenty of oxygen (paper, wood)
Looks like: Dry, powdery residue. Easier to clean but gets into cracks and crevices.
Can often be vacuumed and wiped, but may need professional cleaning for porous materials.
Wet Smoke
From: Slow, smoldering fires with less oxygen (plastics, rubber)
Looks like: Sticky, smeary residue with strong odor. Difficult to clean—smears when wiped.
Professional cleaning usually required. Don't try to wipe it yourself—you'll make it worse.
Protein Smoke
From: Kitchen fires involving food or grease
Looks like: Nearly invisible but extremely pungent odor. Discolors surfaces over time.
Requires specialized cleaning. The smell won't go away with regular cleaning products.
What to Do After a Fire
Follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim
Step 1
Stay Out Until Cleared
Do NOT enter until the fire department says it's safe. There may be structural hazards, hot spots, or toxic fumes.
Step 2
Contact Insurance
Report immediately. Ask about emergency funds for housing if you can't stay in your home (ALE coverage).
Step 3
Document Everything
Once safe to enter, photograph ALL damage including smoke damage in rooms far from the fire.
Step 4
Secure the Property
Board up openings, tarp the roof if needed. Keep all receipts—this is covered by your policy.
Can't Live in Your Home? (ALE Coverage)
If you can't stay in your home, your policy covers Additional Living Expenses (ALE). Keep ALL receipts for:
Hotel or temporary housing
Restaurant meals (above normal budget)
Laundry and dry cleaning
Pet boarding
Storage unit rental
Extra commute costs
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Talk to Alan AI About Your Fire Claim
Fire claims are complex. Alan AI was trained by adjusters who've handled everything from kitchen fires to total losses. He can guide you through the entire process.
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Guides contents inventory for personal property claims
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