The cost of fire damage cleaning in the UK varies depending on the extent of the damage, the size of the property, and whether smoke, soot, or water contamination is present. Even small fires can result in significant cleaning costs due to smoke spread and odour penetration.
This guide explains what affects fire damage cleaning costs, typical price ranges, and what is usually included.
What Affects the Cost of Fire Damage Cleaning?
Fire damage cleaning costs depend on several key factors:
- severity of fire, smoke, and soot damage
- size and layout of the property
- number of rooms affected
- level of contamination
- water damage from firefighting
- whether contents need cleaning or disposal
Each fire damage case is assessed individually.
Typical Fire Damage Cleaning Costs in the UK
Small or Localised Fire Damage
Examples: minor kitchen fires, small electrical fires.
Estimated cost:
£500 – £2,000
Usually involves:
- light soot removal
- surface cleaning
- odour treatment
Moderate Fire and Smoke Damage
Examples: smoke spread across multiple rooms.
Estimated cost:
£2,000 – £6,000
May include:
- extensive soot cleaning
- smoke odour removal
- partial contents cleaning
- water damage treatment
Severe Fire Damage
Examples: large fires or multiple affected rooms.
Estimated cost:
£6,000 – £15,000+
Often includes:
- full property cleaning
- deep odour treatment
- disposal of unsalvageable items
- coordination with insurers or loss adjusters
Structural repairs are not usually included in cleaning costs.
What Is Usually Included in Fire Damage Cleaning?
Fire damage cleaning may include:
- soot and smoke residue removal
- surface and fixture cleaning
- odour neutralisation
- water extraction and drying
- documentation of damaged items
- safe waste disposal
The exact scope depends on the assessment.
What Is Not Usually Included?
Fire damage cleaning costs typically do not include:
- rebuilding or structural repairs
- redecorating
- electrical or plumbing repairs
- replacement of permanently damaged items
These are usually handled separately.
Does Insurance Cover Fire Damage Cleaning?
In many cases, fire damage cleaning is covered by buildings or contents insurance. However:
- coverage varies by policy
- excess payments may apply
- insurers may appoint their own contractors
Always check your policy or speak with your insurer before arranging cleaning.
(We cover insurance in detail in the next post.)
Can Fire Damage Cleaning Costs Be Reduced?
Costs may be lower if:
- cleaning begins early
- damage is contained
- odours have not fully penetrated materials
Delays often increase cleaning complexity and cost.
Getting an Accurate Cost Assessment
Accurate pricing usually requires:
- an on-site inspection
- assessment of fire, smoke, and water damage
- evaluation of contents
Estimates based on photos alone may be unreliable.
Related Guides
- Fire Damage Cleaning in the UK: What It Involves, When It’s Needed, and What Happens Next
- Does Insurance Cover Fire Damage Cleaning in the UK?
- Smoke and Soot Damage: Why Cleaning Is Essential After a Fire
- Can a Property Be Reoccupied After Fire Damage Cleaning?
Final Thoughts
Fire damage cleaning costs vary widely depending on severity and contamination. Understanding what affects pricing helps property owners and landlords plan the next steps and avoid delays in restoring the property.