Complete Fire Damage Guide

Fire damage restoration typically takes 2–8 weeks depending on severity. Minor smoke damage (one room) can be addressed in 1–2 weeks. Moderate fire damage requiring structural repairs takes 4–6 weeks. Major fire damage with structural compromise, roof replacement, or extensive reconstruction can take 8–16 weeks. The process includes emergency board-up, water extraction (from firefighting), smoke and soot removal, structural drying, odour neutralisation, and reconstruction.

Yes, fire damage is covered by virtually all Australian home and contents insurance policies under the "fire and explosion" peril. This includes structural damage, smoke damage, and firefighter water damage. Most policies also cover temporary accommodation (typically 12 months) while your home is uninhabitable. However, you must document all damage before any cleanup begins and lodge your claim promptly. We bill you directly — you then claim reimbursement from your insurer with the full documentation we provide.

Many smoke-damaged items can be professionally cleaned and restored, but it depends on the smoke type and material. Protein residue from kitchen fires cleans well from hard surfaces. Synthetic smoke (from burning plastics) is more corrosive and may permanently stain porous materials. Soft furnishings, carpets, and curtains often need replacing if heavily affected. Hard surfaces like countertops, tiles, and glass generally respond well to professional cleaning with specialised solvents. An IICRC-certified technician can assess what is salvageable versus what requires replacement.

Do not enter a fire-damaged property until the fire service has cleared it as structurally safe. Even after clearance, risks include weakened floors and ceilings, toxic soot particles, asbestos exposure (in pre-1990 homes), electrical hazards, and gas leaks. Always wear an N95 respirator, closed shoes, and long sleeves when entering. Avoid touching soot-covered surfaces with bare hands, as soot contains carcinogenic compounds. A professional make-safe assessment identifies and mitigates these hazards before any restoration work begins.

Professional smoke odour removal uses a multi-step process: thermal fogging penetrates porous materials with deodorising agents, ozone treatment oxidises odour molecules in enclosed spaces, hydroxyl generators break down airborne particles, and air scrubbers with HEPA and carbon filtration remove residual particulates. For severe smoke, affected gyprock may need cutting out and replacing as drywall absorbs smoke compounds deep into its core. DIY methods like vinegar, baking soda, or air fresheners only mask the smell temporarily — they cannot reach smoke particles embedded in walls, insulation, and structural cavities.

After the fire service gives clearance: (1) Contact your insurer to lodge a claim. (2) Document all damage with timestamped photos and video before anything is touched or cleaned. (3) Contact a professional restoration company for emergency board-up and make-safe. (4) Do not attempt to clean soot yourself as improper cleaning can set stains permanently. (5) Secure valuables and important documents if safely accessible. (6) Arrange temporary accommodation — most policies cover this. (7) Keep all receipts for emergency expenses as these are typically reimbursable.