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It is generally not safe to live in a house with smoke damage, as even minor damage can pose long-term health hazards and structural risks. While it might seem safe temporarily depending on the severity, you should relocate if there is major damage or visible soot. Smoke smells and residue contain dangerous particulates and chemical compounds, including carcinogens, that are hazardous to breathe and can cause respiratory issues. These signs of damage are not always visible but can have dangerous short-term and long-term effects on your health, belongings, and your home's structural materials. You should not stay in the house until a trained professional from a smoke remediation or restoration company has assessed the damage and determined it is safe to return. Your insurance company may cover the cost of alternative housing while the professional work is completed.

Ozone smoke removal uses an ozone generator to eliminate stubborn odors from sources like house fires, wildfires, or cigarette smoke. Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive and unstable gas that effectively neutralizes smoke odors through a process called oxidation. It 'donates' its extra oxygen molecule to the organic compounds causing the smell, altering their structure and eliminating the odor, with oxygen being the primary byproduct. This method can be effective on building materials and furniture. However, because improper use of an ozone generator can be dangerous to your health, this treatment is best left to a professional.

The timeline for fire damage restoration varies significantly, from a day or two to over a year, depending on the extent of the damage. For minor incidents like a small cooking fire, cleaning up soot and removing smoke odors may only take a day or two. Repairing minor damage might take about one to two weeks. However, a major fire requiring structural repairs, full property renovation, and replacement of materials can take anywhere from six to 12 months to over a year. This longer timeline often includes waiting for insurance approvals and contractor scheduling. It's best to consult with your insurance provider and restoration team to get an accurate timeline for your specific situation.

After a house fire, you should not reenter your home unless the fire crew has told you it’s safe to do so. In the longer term, you should not attempt to make repairs to the house on your own. Professional crews are trained to clean up after a fire (including smoke and soot damage), dry out any water damage from the firefighter crews, and make the necessary structural, plumbing, and electrical repairs—and this is all likely covered by insurance.