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Moving into a new home only to discover smoke damage? You’re not alone, and it’s important to understand that not all smoke damage is the same. Different types of smoke leave behind different residues, odors, and health risks, and each requires a specific cleanup approach. As experienced public adjusters, we help homeowners identify the type of smoke damage, assess the full extent of the loss, and fight to make sure your insurance claim covers everything it should. Here are the most common types of smoke damage and what you should know about each one: 1. Dry Smoke Caused by:  Fast-burning, high-temperature fires — typically fueled by paper, wood, or fabric. Appearance:  Fine, powdery residue that can easily settle into small cracks and crevices. Damage Level:  Moderate. Dry smoke is easier to clean than other types, but it's often invisible to the eye and can leave behind long-lasting odors. Cleanup Tip:  Professional cleaning is recommended to reach hidden damage and prevent odor from resurfacing later. 2. Wet Smoke Caused by:  Slow-burning, low-temperature fires — usually involving plastics or rubber. Appearance:  Thick, sticky, and smeary residue with a strong, lingering smell. Damage Level:  Severe. Wet smoke clings to every surface, spreads easily, and is extremely difficult to clean without specialized tools. Cleanup Tip:  Avoid DIY — improper cleaning can smear the residue and make it worse. Professional equipment is essential. 3. Recreational Smoke (Tobacco & Marijuana) Caused by:  Cigarette, cigar, and marijuana smoke over time. Appearance:  Yellowish or brown staining on walls, ceilings, and furniture; persistent odors. Damage Level:  Long-term. Often underestimated, this type of smoke can deeply saturate porous surfaces and HVAC systems. Cleanup Tip:  Deep cleaning, air scrubbing, and odor-neutralizing treatments like ozone or thermal fogging may be required. 4. Cooking Smoke Caused by:  Daily cooking or accidental kitchen fires — especially from grease-heavy foods like meat and oil. Appearance:  Greasy film on walls, cabinets, and appliances; possible discoloration. Damage Level:  Mild to moderate. Damage may be localized but can spread if ventilation is poor. Cleanup Tip:  Use degreasers or smoke-specific cleaning products. In severe cases, professional restoration is needed. 5. Oil Smoke Caused by:  Oil-based fires or malfunctioning oil-burning appliances. Appearance:  Dense, dark smoke with a strong, acrid odor; can leave behind thick, greasy soot. Damage Level:  High. Oil smoke is not only hard to clean but can also pose serious health risks if inhaled or left untreated. Cleanup Tip:  Professional cleaning crews with proper protective gear and tools are essential. DIY methods can be hazardous. Why Professional Help Matters Smoke damage is more than just cosmetic — it can affect your health, property value, and insurance coverage . Many homeowners don’t realize that insurance companies may undervalue or deny parts of a claim if the damage isn’t fully documented or cleaned correctly. That’s where we come in. As licensed public adjusters , we: ✅ Identify and document all types of smoke damage ✅ Handle your insurance claim and negotiate on your behalf ✅ Ensure you receive the maximum payout  you’re entitled to ✅ Connect you with trusted, certified restoration experts 📞 Need Help with Smoke Damage in Your Home? Don’t leave your health or insurance claim to chance. If your home has suffered from any kind of smoke damage, contact us today  for a free consultation and professional damage assessment.

A house fire is a devastating event — not only do you lose your home, but your belongings and sense of security as well. If the fire was caused by someone else’s negligence, a public adjuster can help you recover the compensation you deserve from your insurance company. To make sure you hire the right public adjuster, here are six essential tips to guide you through the process: 1. Do Your Research Before hiring a public adjuster, take time to research their background. Visit their website to learn about their services, certifications, and experience. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to understand their reputation. 2. Get Multiple Quotes Don’t settle for the first public adjuster you find. Contact at least three firms to compare their services, fees, and expertise. This helps ensure you find a public adjuster who fits your budget and specific needs. 3. Ask for Referrals Friends, family, or neighbors who have been through similar situations can provide valuable recommendations. Ask about their experiences and which public adjusters they trusted. 4. Obtain a Written Contract Always insist on a detailed written contract outlining the services provided and the fee structure. This protects both you and the adjuster and ensures clear expectations. If possible, have the contract notarized for added security. 5. Interview Potential Candidates Meet with multiple public adjusters in person or virtually. Ask about their background, approach to your claim, timeline, and how they handle negotiations with insurance companies. Personal rapport and clear communication are important. 6. Understand Your Insurance Policy Before hiring, clarify your insurance coverage for fire damage. Some policies or situations may restrict the use of a public adjuster. Also, ask if the firm requires any upfront payment and what happens if your claim is denied. Conclusion Choosing the right public adjuster can make a significant difference in recovering your losses after a house fire. Take the time to research, compare, and interview multiple firms to find one that fits your needs and budget. With the right advocate on your side, you can focus on rebuilding your life while they handle the insurance claim.

A public adjusting firm specializes in helping homeowners navigate insurance claims after property damage. Unlike insurance company adjusters, public adjusters work exclusively for you — the policyholder — to ensure you get the maximum settlement  you’re entitled to. Choosing the right public adjusting firm can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. Here are some essential factors to consider when deciding which firm is right for you: 1. Consider Your Budget Public adjusters typically charge based on a percentage of the claim settlement or an hourly rate. It’s important to understand their fee structure upfront and ensure it fits your budget. Some firms may also charge extra for work done outside regular business hours, like weekends or evenings. Be clear about these details before signing any agreement to avoid surprises later. 2. Look for Experience and Specialization Experience matters—especially with complex insurance claims. An experienced public adjuster will have in-depth knowledge of insurance policies, claims processes, and negotiation tactics. However, it’s equally important to choose a firm that specializes in the type of damage you’ve experienced. For example, a firm well-versed in flood damage claims will better serve you if your property suffered water damage. 3. Research the Firm’s Reputation Before hiring any public adjusting firm, do your homework: Check licensing:  In many states, public adjusters must be licensed. Licensing ensures the firm meets professional standards and complies with state regulations. Read reviews and ratings:  Look at online reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. A strong track record with positive reviews and an A+ BBB rating indicates a trustworthy firm. Ask for references:  Speak with past clients if possible to learn about their experiences. 4. Understand Their Process and Communication A good public adjusting firm will be transparent about their process, keep you informed, and promptly answer your questions. Since insurance claims can be stressful and time-sensitive, clear communication and responsiveness are essential qualities. Making an Informed Decision Selecting a public adjusting firm is an important decision that can affect the outcome of your insurance claim. Take the time to research, compare, and ask questions. The right firm will not only help you get a fair settlement but also provide peace of mind during a difficult time.