How smoke migrates
- Fire produces particulates and VOCs
- HVAC return draws contaminated air
- Coils and ducts accumulate residue
- Every supplied room receives contaminated air
- Contents and surfaces absorb residue over time
Documentation required
- NADCA-certified duct cleaning quote
- Spore/particulate testing (pre-remediation baseline)
- Coil inspection photos
- Air-handler smoke-damage assessment
- Clearance testing post-remediation
Carrier under-scoping
- "Just clean the coil"
- "Return air filter replacement is enough"
- "Duct cleaning not required"
- Whole-home remediation declined
What's actually required
- Full duct cleaning (NADCA standards)
- Coil cleaning or replacement
- Drain pan remediation
- Register and boot cleaning
- Content surface cleaning or replacement
- HEPA filtration during remediation
- Clearance testing verification