Smoke Remediation Cost 2019
On average, smoke remediation costs $12,479. Homeowners have reported smoke remediation estimates ranging between $3,149 and $12,303, according to data provided by 134 homeowners on HomeAdvisor.
When you have a major catastrophe like fire, flood, or smoke damage your first step should be to contact your insurance agent. Depending on your coverage homeowner’s insurance may cover the damage and they may have licensed and bonded contractors they can recommend for you.
Where there is smoke there is fire and the price will increase or decreased based upon the depth damage, what areas were damaged, ultimately determining what repairs are needed. Other factors will be how the fire was extinguished and if there will be a cleanup cost associated with something like mold from wet flooring because of water used to put out the fire.
Cost Per Square Foot For Fire & Smoke Restoration
On average a 2,600 square-foot home costs $4.70 per square-foot.
The three cost areas that most contractors focus on are:
- Burnt Material Removal
- Water Damage Removal
- Soot Removal & Cleanup
Damage From Smoke and Associated Cleanup Costs?
The cost will vary depending on factors like on how the smoke damage is removed as well as when the damage occurred. You should expect to pay between $200 and $1,000 depending on the extent of the damage.
As general guidelines fabrics will soak up the smell of smoke. The longer fabrics like carpet are exposed to smoke odors the stronger the scent will be. The American Red Cross suggests using a mild detergent and Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) to begin removing soot on your own but recommends using a professional for larger items.
Smoke Damage Cleanup Costs and Removal Methods
When a DIY approach fails or the project is too large it is best to call in professionals. Two of their preferred methods are:
Ozone Treatment ($200-500+). Ozone treatment increases oxygen from two atoms to three making this gas potentially dangerous and highly flammable.
Thermal Fogging ($200-600). Machines create a fog to counteract odor causing smoke particles at the source of the damage.
Since neither of these is an all-in-one solution it is best to use both to help improve results.
How Much Does Cigarette Smoke Remediation Cost?
A unit where a heavy smoker lived can cost 3-4 more times to turn over when compared to a non-smoking unit in some areas this could cost $8,000, and other high costs of living areas can reach $15,000, according to Property Management Insider. The reason for the high price is because there are so many facets that will need to be repaired, replaced, or remediated.
Depending on the length a smoking tenant resides in a unit the higher turn over cost is because cigarette smoke has more time to creep into areas like carpets, ductwork, cabinets, counters, walls, and other “soft” areas of the unit.
Smoke Damage Restoration Process
Since the process for restoring a unit because of smoke and fire damage or cigarette damage is an identical process we have put the two together.
1) Deodorize Smoke Damage
This is the step when ozone machines and thermal foggers are used to remove the smell of smoke and other odors that are trapped in the house or apartment.
2) Seal and Repaint Ceilings and Walls
Depending on the extent of the damage you can use paint designed specifically to help remove odors, but regardless of whatever type of paint and sealer you will need to apply several layers. Also, the walls and ceilings should be cleaned with a mild detergent to ensure they are free of any soot or other debris,
3) Removal and replacement of Carpet, Cabinets, Flooring, and Drywall
If the damage or smell is especially bad you may need to remove the actual drywall in the unit or house. A first step should be deep cleaning carpets and other soft items or refinishing hardwood floors since these cover large areas and may save you from having to replace the entire flooring in the unit.