How long does a burnt smell last in a house?

• <div><p>Luckily, you can typically eliminate your microwave’s burnt smell within a few hours for most situations. Be sure to let it air out for two to three hours after cleaning to let the odor evacuate your home—if you close your home up too early, the odor will be trapped. For stronger, more stubborn burnt smells, it might take a full day or more to really notice a difference. </p></div>

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Q: Is it safe to live in a house with smoke damage?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: What should you not do after a house fire?

• <div><p>After a house fire, you should not reenter your home unless the fire crew has told you it&rsquo;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&mdash;and this is all likely covered by insurance.</p></div>

Q: Can I clean up fire damage myself?

• <div><p>DIY cleanup is not recommended due to hazardous soot, odors, and potential structural issues.</p></div>

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover smoke damage?

• <div><p>In many cases, homeowners insurance covers smoke damage remediation, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage and the specifics of your policy. Typically, damage from a house fire, wildfire, or even a fire in a neighboring home is covered. However, damage from cigarette smoke is generally not covered.</p><p>Before filing a claim, review your policy to understand what is covered, such as restoration costs, replacement of damaged items, and temporary relocation. It's crucial to document all damage thoroughly, including to furniture and personal belongings. Contact your insurance provider promptly to start the claim process and get an evaluation before hiring professionals. Your insurer may also provide a list of approved smoke remediation companies to streamline the process.</p></div>

Q: How long does a burnt smell last in a house?

• <div><p>Luckily, you can typically eliminate your microwave&rsquo;s burnt smell within a few hours for most situations. Be sure to let it air out for two to three hours after cleaning to let the odor evacuate your home&mdash;if you close your home up too early, the odor will be trapped. For stronger, more stubborn burnt smells, it might take a full day or more to really notice a difference. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Chimney Sweeping pros in Saint James, MO

*The Angi rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Saint James, MO is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Saint James, MO is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

Last update on July 18, 2026

Reviewed in July 2026
Wow! Great service and attention to detail is top notch. We have used his services twice and both times, we were impressed with outcome! I would recommend them time and time again for tree trimming services!
Gowers Tree Service
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Reviewed in April 2025
The last tornado that came though we called and he was there within a hour in Rolla area due to use not being able to get out! He cleared a lot of trees off our driveway. Very professional attitude and done a 10/10 job. He will have my future business for sure!
Precision Excavation & Concrete LLC
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Reviewed in May 2022
This young man and his employees did a tremendous job. Removed 5 trees from my yard. They raked, cleaned up the brush. Moved the wood to a location I can access later for heat,. My yard does not look like trees were removed. Very affordable. I will use again. Highly recommend
Ritzco Tree Care
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Reviewed in November 2021
I had 6 ash trees that needed to be removed due to emerald ash borer infestation. They did a fantastic job. All trees and debris were removed and the yard was left in excellent condition. i would not hesitate to call them again.
Above It All Tree Service, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
I appreciate the professional , courteous and prompt manner in which they conduct their gutter cleaning services. JOB WELL DONE!
Skweeky Kleen Windows, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2021
You could not find nicer or more professional people to work with. They cleaned my fireplace flue and also installed a brand new Osborn fireplace insert - and they did an excellent job on both. I highly recommend them!
A+ Chimney Services, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2014
Jeff was very informative as to how and why raccoons hang out in your chimney flu. We had trapped this poor guy by adding caps. Moral of the story cap all flus but not before looking in them first.
Absolute Pest Control
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Reviewed in September 2009
I've just moved into a new (to me) house in Desoto, MO. The house is eight years old and it's the first time I've had a house with a wood burning fireplace. I need to have the fireplace cleaned and inspected, so I turned to Angie's List to find a good company. When I called a few minutes ago...
Ashes Away
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Reviewed in August 2008
Eric Newman came out to the house promptly as scheduled. He was cordial and took his time explaining to me the different levels of service that could be performed depending upon the outcome of the inspection. The inspection went well and I was told I did not need the most costly service and...
NEWMAN'S CHIMNEY SERVICES
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Find Chimney sweeps in Saint James

Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and InspectChimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For BusinessClean and Inspect a gas fireplace+3 more

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent - customer service is outstanding."

Recommended by93%of homeowners

Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Mr. Gartner had presented his self with a professional manor. He responded to my emergency call very promptly. I had given him the information he needed, and he gave me the information that I needed. In about an hour and a half he was finished working and was cleaning up his mess. And knowing that I have small children he was kind enough to call back the following morning to make sure everything was still working correctly. Thank You for the quilty service. Penny Grimm"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Chimney or Fireplace - Clean and Inspect - For BusinessClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Billy Duncan was very professional and excellent at repairing the chimney."

Response time1 day

Response rate94%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Living legend Inspection

4.5(

)

Clean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Duct cleaning, filter replacements and fireplace cleaning Knowlegable about their work."

Response time3 days

Recommended by50%of homeowners

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Kays Cleaning

New to Angi

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood burning stove or pellet stoveClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney+1 more

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

Hi! I’m Kaylea, owner of Kay’s Cleaning, based out of Wentzville. I provide reliable home cleaning and specialize in Airbnb turnovers. I’m detail-oriented, dependable, and focused on leaving every space spotless and guest-ready

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Magnetic Services LLC

1.0(

)

Clean and Inspect a gas fireplaceClean and Inspect a wood fireplace chimney

Serving Saint James, MO and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Magnetic Services, we provide dependable garage door services homeowners can trust, built on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship. Our skilled team is committed to keeping your garage door operating safely and smoothly, whether you need a repair, replacement, installation, or routine maintenance. From broken springs and damaged panels to opener issues and full garage door upgrades, we handle every job with care and expertise. We combine local, personalized service with reliable support, allowing us to respond quickly and provide solutions that fit your homes needs. At Magnetic Services, our goal is to exceed expectations and be your trusted partner for safe, efficient, and long-lasting garage door service. Call today!

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Chimney Sweep questions, answered by experts

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.

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.

DIY cleanup is not recommended due to hazardous soot, odors, and potential structural issues.

In many cases, homeowners insurance covers smoke damage remediation, but coverage depends on the cause of the damage and the specifics of your policy. Typically, damage from a house fire, wildfire, or even a fire in a neighboring home is covered. However, damage from cigarette smoke is generally not covered.

Before filing a claim, review your policy to understand what is covered, such as restoration costs, replacement of damaged items, and temporary relocation. It's crucial to document all damage thoroughly, including to furniture and personal belongings. Contact your insurance provider promptly to start the claim process and get an evaluation before hiring professionals. Your insurer may also provide a list of approved smoke remediation companies to streamline the process.

Luckily, you can typically eliminate your microwave’s burnt smell within a few hours for most situations. Be sure to let it air out for two to three hours after cleaning to let the odor evacuate your home—if you close your home up too early, the odor will be trapped. For stronger, more stubborn burnt smells, it might take a full day or more to really notice a difference.

The Saint James, MO homeowners’ guide to chimney sweeping services

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Knowing how to use a creosote sweeping log for additional maintenance in between your annual chimney sweep can help keep your home safe from fires.