Restoring Homes After Wildfires, Interviews with Practitioners about Common Cleanup Approaches and Knowledge Gaps

This document summarizes the key themes from our interviews with 10 remediation companies regarding common approaches used to remove odor and contaminants from homes impacted by fire and smoke damage Remediation companies are in agreement that thorough cleaning is the first step. Cleaning and removing contaminants from homes impacted by wildfires may be sufficient to eliminate smoke odor, which is the most important step when it comes to reducing exposure to any residues that may pose health risks to residents. Remediation companies differ in their approaches to addressing odors, such as using ozone generators, hydroxyl generators, chlorine dioxide treatment, thermal fogging and applying sealants. Their opinions of what works and why differs. There is little consensus on efficacy, safety, or application protocols. For example, some view ozone very favorably, while others would prefer using other methods. The influence of insurance companies in their coverage for some methods but not others also impact the decision about the approaches used. Remediation companies differ in their view on laboratory testing for contaminants, which may be partly influenced by insurance companies as well.