Project Highlight – Smoke and Fire Damage Assessment in a Residential Home

Project Description: Quality Environmental Services and Technologies (QUEST) performed a smoke and fire damage assessment at a 6,300-square-foot residence in Avon, Colorado. A windstorm and outdoor fireplace fire severely damaged approximately 30% of the structure. Initially, QUEST completed a comprehensive inspection, followed by a mid-stream evaluation and a final clearance inspection. As a result of our documentation and reporting, the insurance carrier released funding for mitigation, repair, and renovation.

Sampling and Analysis: Upon mobilization, QUEST conducted surface sampling and developed a mitigation scope for the residence. Our team collected approximately 30 surface samples to evaluate soot, char, and ash particulates generated by the fire. Using laboratory results and field observations, we created an evidence-based mitigation plan targeting smoke deposition and affected building materials.

As demolition progressed, previously concealed damage became apparent. Consequently, QUEST returned to document these findings and refine the mitigation scope. After mitigation was completed, we performed clearance verification sampling. In addition, two separate site visits confirmed clean surface conditions in treated areas.

Conclusions: Throughout the project, QUEST maintained clear communication with the contractor and homeowner. Ultimately, our timely response, technical evaluation, and defensible documentation supported appropriate insurance funding and helped restore the residence to pre-loss condition.