Following a nearby wildfire, a high-value family residence in Brentwood showed no visible fire damage but had significant smoke infiltration through the HVAC system and building envelope. The insurance carrier’s initial remediation estimate covered surface cleaning only. The family, including young children, needed independent assessment of the actual contamination extent.
Comprehensive air quality testing revealed elevated particulate and VOC levels throughout the home, with the highest concentrations in the HVAC system and soft furnishings. We developed an independent scope that included duct cleaning, soft material replacement, and HEPA filtration, then negotiated with the insurance carrier using our documented findings.
- ◈No visible damage but pervasive smoke odor throughout the property
- ◈HVAC system had operated during the fire event, distributing particulates
- ◈Insurance estimate covered surface cleaning but not system remediation
- ◈Family with young children needed safe re-occupancy assurance
The insurance carrier approved a revised scope at 2.8x the original estimate based on our independent documentation. The family relocated temporarily during remediation. Post-remediation testing confirmed all zones met residential air quality standards before re-occupancy.
Organized reports, reviewed vendor proposals, and translated findings into practical decisions.
Details have been intentionally limited to preserve client privacy.