Key facts: Houston Fire Damage
- Most Houston homes sit on slab with ducts in the attic, so smoke moves through the ceiling space and into every room.
- Attic fires and garage fires can reach insulation fast.
- Burned insulation holds odor, so it usually needs removing before smells will clear.
When the attic carries smoke
Attic fires and garage fires can reach insulation fast. Burned insulation holds odor, so it usually needs removing before smells will clear.
Hose water in the heat
Firefighting water plus Gulf humidity is a mold risk within days. Drying should start alongside the soot cleanup.
Fire history in Harris County
FEMA lists 3 fire-related federal declarations covering Harris County, most recently Forest Brook Fire in 2011.
Across all incident types, Harris County has 41 federal declarations on record, and any of them may open aid for Houston residents that insurance does not cover.
Protecting a fire-damaged Houston home
Houston averages 75 inches of precipitation a year, with February the driest month and May and September the wettest. Fire-damaged homes opened up by firefighting are exposed to that weather, so board-up and roof tarping matter quickly.
About 61 days a year reach 90°F, and heat speeds up odor and mold problems in a wet, closed house. Ask about temporary ventilation while you wait for the insurance adjuster.
Fire services in Houston
Questions
Houston fire damage questions
Is it safe to stay in a home with smoke damage?
Ask the fire department, and avoid breathing soot during cleanup.
Should I clean soot myself?
Light wiping can smear and set it, so ask a contractor first.