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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.

No, not all black mold is toxic. Although people often refer to stachybotrys chartarum as toxic black mold, there is little evidence that any one type of black mold has more toxicity than another. People who have an allergy to black mold would be more likely to have a dangerous reaction after inhaling it. Long-term exposure to black mold spores can lead to severe infection and disease. Some people only have minor health problems after black mold exposure. Ultimately, toxicity is rare with any kind of mold, but it is possible, so always take the appropriate precautions.

If your sill plate is visibly rotting, you need to call in a structural engineer immediately to make an assessment. They will determine if the sill plate needs repair or a full replacement, and they’ll also provide you with a protocol that you can give to a foundation repair specialist to get the work done properly. After your repair pro completes the replacement or repair, you should address the underlying issue, which could involve installing a dehumidifier, adding ventilation under your home, grading your land away from your foundation, or installing waterproofing measures.

Sewer gas in any location can cause eye and respiratory irritation if you’re exposed at low levels, or more severe symptoms if you’re exposed at high levels—but fortunately, the fresh air outside means it’s less likely to affect your physical health. However, sewer smells outside can still indicate significant plumbing problems that will need to be dealt with, such as a potentially damaged sewer line or roof vent pipe.