What Can Be Saved After a House Fire?
Which belongings can usually be cleaned or restored after a house fire, which cannot and how to document everything for insurance.
Call now, 24/7
Tell the operator your city, what happened and whether the fire department has cleared the building. You will be connected with a local provider that covers your area.
(833) 917-4160Fire damage? Call now, 24/7
- Give your city and ZIP code
- Say what happened and whether the fire is out
- Ask the company about its license and insurance
Quick answer
More than most people expect. Hard goods, clothing, many electronics and some documents can be cleaned or restored. Food, medicine and cosmetics exposed to heat or smoke should be thrown out. Document everything before disposal.
Items that often can be saved
- Dishes, glassware, metal and tools
- Clothing, linens and curtains, with proper cleaning
- Furniture with hard surfaces and many upholstered pieces
- Many electronics, after inspection by a qualified technician
- Photos, books and papers, depending on damage
Items that usually should not be kept
- Food, drinks and anything in open packaging exposed to heat or smoke
- Medicines and cosmetics that were exposed to heat or smoke
- Items with deep char or structural warping
- Heavily contaminated porous items such as mattresses
The USDA advises that when in doubt about food exposed to a fire, throw it out. That includes foods in cartons or containers that could have absorbed fumes.
Electronics and appliances
Do not plug in electronics or appliances that have been in smoke or soaked. Corrosive soot can damage circuits, and a device can fail or overheat. Have them checked first.
Documents and valuables
Fragile papers should be handled carefully and stored in a safe place. The Red Cross recommends storing important documents like passports, birth certificates and marriage licenses in a safe, fire resistant location once recovered. Valuables, art and heirlooms may justify a specialist assessment.
Keep an inventory
Take photos before cleaning, list item details and keep records of anything you discard. The restoration company can also provide an inventory during pack out.
Sources and further reading
- American Red Cross: what to do after the fire department leaves
- USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service
- IICRC: ANSI/IICRC S700 Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
Related services
Need help now?
This guide is part of our resources on emergency fire damage restoration. Browse locations we serve. Call 24/7 (833) 917-4160 to be connected with an independent local company. Browse fire damage services or find help in your state.