An uncontained fire in your home is never good, but not all fires in the home are the same. Gaining some knowledge about the types of fire that can occur – and how they start – can aid in prevention and response.
Two common types of fires that can occur in homes are structure fires (which encompasses many sub categories) and chimney fires.
How Are Structure Fires & Chimney Fires Different?
A structure fire is a fire that occurs within a constructed building or other structure. It could be caused by a number of factors: electrical malfunction, failure of heating equipment, cooking accidents, arson, and more. This means that preventing structure fires requires caution on several fronts. For example, don’t overload circuits, and maintain and use appliances with care. Don’t leave your stove, oven, or fireplace unattended while in use.
Because a chimney is considered part of the infrastructure of a home, some consider chimney fires a specific subcategory of structure fires. At any rate, they have their own distinct risk factors and set of features that are worthy of note.
Chimney fires occur within the chimney flue. They’re usually caused by creosote build-up, although other chimney debris can be a factor too. Creosote is a byproduct of combustion, and over time it accumulates on the inner walls of the chimney. Creosote accumulation is bad news for homeowners, because creosote is very combustible. If temperatures become high enough or a stray spark meets it, creosote can ignite. The result? A chimney fire.
Some chimney fires are less dramatic than other types of fires. Often there’s less visible flame, and while they can spread to surrounding structures, they often remain contained within the chimney. They can be extremely destructive, however, causing significant damage to the chimney and potentially other areas of the home.
Home & Chimney Fires: Insurance & Repair Coverage
Because structure and chimney fires aren’t synonymous, the implications for insurance coverage and repair needs can differ between the two. For the specifics of your coverage you should refer to your policy and insurance provider – but there are some general considerations to be mindful of.
Structure Fires
Typically, your homeowners insurance covers damage to the structure of your home and personal property, as well as any liability claims, in the case that someone is injured. It may also cover temporary living costs if your home was damaged beyond immediate habitation.
Exclusions? If damage was caused by neglect or lack of maintenance, it might not be covered. For example, if the homeowner was aware of faulty wiring, but took no steps to address it, it’s possible that claims from a resulting fire would be denied.
Repairs from a structure fire can be extensive, and the costs are often high. This is because structural repairs, replacement needs, and professional cleaning of smoke damage might all be involved – and at times entire sections of the house might need to be rebuilt. It’s worth taking a look at your policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage should such a scenario occur.
Chimney Fires
Structural damage caused by a chimney fire will usually be covered by homeowner’s insurance, including repairing/replacing the chimney and other damage to the house. Coverage for contents inside the chimney, such as a flue liner, might be limited or require extra steps.
Exclusions? Just as lack of maintenance can be a factor in structure fire claims, chimney fire damage resulting from poor maintenance may not be covered. For instance, if the homeowner didn’t have the chimney routinely inspected or cleaned, insurance might not cover repairs.
In most cases, repairs from a chimney fire focus on the chimney itself, including the masonry, flue liner, and possibly the roof. Nearby areas may also require repair depending on the intensity and spread of the fire. While often less costly than a structure fire, chimney fire repairs can still be substantial, especially if structural elements of the house were compromised.
Preventing Home & Chimney Fires
Of course, preventing a fire is always better than cleaning up after one.
Preventing structure fires requires attention to the areas of your home that have increased risk factors. For example:
- Observing safe practices while cooking and using your fireplace are important.
- Don’t overload your outlets.
- Take care to perform maintenance tasks, such as clearing out dryer lint, regularly.
- If there are issues with wiring or faulty appliances, don’t ignore them. Hire a licensed electrician to inspect and maintain your electrical system.
- Keep combustible materials away from high heat areas.
- Always take care to follow manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance of heating appliances and anything you plug in.
Furthermore, you should make provisions for a quick, appropriate response should a fire occur. Install smoke alarms in key areas of your home and test them routinely. Know how to attack different types of fires – for example, know that throwing water on a grease or electrical fire is extremely dangerous. And be sure that all members of your household understand fire safety plans.
Preventing chimney fires involves a few extra safety steps. Since incomplete combustion of wood produces creosote, you should burn only well-seasoned firewood in your wood burning fireplace. Have your chimney inspected by a trusted, CSIA certified professional annual. You should also have your technician sweep your chimney routinely to remove debris, bird’s nests, or other obstructions that can create dangerous conditions. To further promote fireplace safety, replace your chimney cap if it’s in poor condition – it’s a helpful line of defense in fire safety.
Keeping Homes Safer Since 1985
Safety is a primary concern in what we do. If you’re in the market for a partner in excellent chimney care, know that we take that charge seriously. Whether you’re concerned that you may have sustained a chimney fire, are in need of a chimney inspection, or are looking for ways to make your fireplace safer and more efficient, make us your first call!
We love keeping fireplaces beautiful and safe – and homeowners comfortable and happy! Give us a call or reach out online today.