How to Document and File Smoke Damage Insurance Claims

A fire has the ability to destroy anything and everything it comes in contact with…  But as deadly as the fire gets with flames spreading easily, scaling walls and roofs, don’t forget the aftermath of fire: smoke damage. Smoke is as destructive as it gets, damaging all machinery, electronics, rugs and mattresses, wall-to-wall carpeting and flooring, leaving in its wake just remains of black soot and ash. It does not stop at that; it affects your health, too.

Your insurance firm may not honor your insurance claim for damages caused by smoke unless explicitly stated in the policy, but one thing’s for sure: fire and smoke go hand-in-hand, both causing damages. After a fire occurs, you will have to document your case as you go and submit the documents well within the time frame given in order to hopefully get compensation.

Victims of fires tend to be in a daze afterward– it was a sudden, shocking event. They’re generally not thinking about smoke damage. Instead, they’re sad, crying because they lost their house and possessions. They’re not in the best frame of mind to figure out the details of the fire and its associated damages.

How does the average person look for smoke damage? They need to run their hands on the furniture and if they get a thin oily film on their fingers, they’ve got smoke damage. When making an insurance claim, oftentimes the average person makes mistakes or omissions. In their rush to fill out a claim, they often:

• Fail to accurately pinpoint the damage(s) to their personal belongings, including tangible assets.
• Come to hasty conclusions regarding their personal assets without including “loss by smoke” in their insurance claims.
• Fail to get a second opinion from the public adjuster for presenting their claim.

Before throwing things away, keep in mind that loss due to smoke damage is a real thing– and often overlooked by many people. That said, it’s important to document everything and keep track of items, like TVs and other electronics, especially, which no longer function due to smoke damage, etc. Every loss (and potential loss) should be listed in a claim– including things like HVAC equipment, computers and appliances.

Smoke damage after a fire can be just as devastating as the flames themselves—impacting your home, health, and financial future. Unfortunately, many insurance claims are denied or underpaid simply because smoke damage wasn’t properly documented or presented. By taking the time to identify the signs of smoke damage, keeping detailed records, and consulting with a professional, you can protect your rights and ensure you’re compensated fairly. If you’re facing a fire or smoke damage claim, don’t go through it alone. Gavnat Public Insurance Adjusters is here to advocate for you, document every detail, and fight for the settlement you deserve. Contact Gavnat today for a free claim review and expert guidance on your smoke damage claim.

Helpful Resources:
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – Fire & Smoke Safety
FEMA – After the Fire: Returning to Normal
Insurance Information Institute – Fire and Smoke Damage

Frequently Asked Questions About Smoke Damage Insurance Claims

1. Does homeowners insurance cover smoke damage?
In many cases, yes — most standard homeowners insurance policies cover smoke damage. However, coverage depends on your policy language. Some insurers may exclude or limit smoke-related losses, so it’s important to review your policy carefully or consult a public adjuster.

2. How do I prove smoke damage for an insurance claim?
Document everything thoroughly: take photos and videos of damaged areas, note odors or discoloration, and keep receipts for electronics, furniture, or appliances that no longer function. Even subtle residue, like oily film on surfaces, can indicate smoke damage.

3. What items are most commonly affected by smoke damage?
Smoke can penetrate almost anything, but common items include electronics (TVs, computers, HVAC systems), soft goods (rugs, mattresses, clothing), and structural materials (drywall, ceilings, flooring).

4. Why are smoke damage claims often denied?
Insurers may deny claims if smoke damage isn’t specifically listed in the policy, if the damage isn’t well-documented, or if losses are not clearly connected to the fire event. Many denials stem from incomplete or inaccurate claim submissions.

5. Should I hire a public adjuster for smoke damage?
Yes. A public adjuster works on your behalf, not the insurance company’s, to ensure smoke damage is accurately assessed and properly included in your claim. They can help maximize your settlement and reduce the risk of denial.