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Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage and restoration, provided the fire was not set intentionally or caused by negligence. Accidental fires, such as those from electrical issues, cooking, or gas, are typically covered. Your policy will usually cover emergency services like roof tarping, the full cost of remediation and rebuilding, and may also cover alternative housing while your home is being restored. You will be responsible for paying your policy's deductible. It is important to check your policy details to see how coverage is calculated—it may be for the full replacement cost of damaged items or the actual cash value, which accounts for depreciation. To expedite your claim, contact your insurance company immediately and have all necessary documentation ready.

Yes, a seller is legally required to disclose any known fire damage when selling a house, including damages that were repaired. That includes damages to structural components and all major systems, as well as water damage, chemical damage, and smoke damage related to the fire. Sellers use a property disclosure statement, which is regulated by each state individually, to disclose fire damage.

The first step is removing water or chemical residue, if applicable, after extinguishing. Next, your professional will clean up soot, remove damaged materials, treat the smoke damage, and complete any necessary structural repairs. After that, your pro will begin the build-back process and install finishes to restore your home to its previous condition.

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.