While hundreds of wildfires in Canada may seem like a distant threat, EPA administrator Lee Zeldin says the impacts are causing “great concern and harm across the United States” as smoke degrades air quality.
While the fires themselves may not reach the U.S., the smoke and ash can dramatically affect air quality in faraway areas and potentially damage homes and cars.
Home and car insurance policies are valuable tools for protecting homes, cars, and belongings from wildfire smoke exposure. Here’s what they cover and what they don’t.
Related: 7 best homeowners insurance companies of 2026
What homeowners insurance covers in the event of wildfire smoke exposure and damage
In the case of wildfire smoke exposure and damage, standard homeowners insurance policies may cover:
Keep in mind that homeowners insurance policies can vary, so carefully review the policy’s terms, conditions, exclusions, and coverage limits. Some policies may even require a special add-on policy if the home is located in a high-risk area.
Learn more: Does homeowners insurance cover wildfire?
What homeowners insurance might not cover
Insurers are increasingly excluding wildfire damage in many high-risk areas. In these situations, buying a standalone policy or adding an endorsement is an option.
Many insurers are also canceling or refusing to renew policies for homes in places with frequent wildfires, while some carriers have stopped writing new policies in high-risk markets altogether.
Other options to try include:
Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) plans. These are state-run pools that serve as insurers of last resort for property owners in high-risk areas. FAIR plans are designed to be temporary and usually offer lower limits at a higher cost. While dwelling coverage is usually included, a separate insurance for personal property and ALE coverage might be necessary.
Surplus or excess line insurance (E&S insurance). Surplus or excess line (E&S) carriers are specialty insurers that cover high-risk scenarios that traditional insurers avoid. E&S insurance may be necessary if the home is in an area at high risk of wildfires or other natural disasters, and higher coverage limits are necessary.
Premier carriers for high-value homes. Some premier carriers specialize in high-value homes, typically those worth over $1 million. These insurers often provide extensive coverage and mitigation services, such as private firefighting.
Learn more: What does home insurance not cover?
What car insurance covers in the event of wildfire smoke exposure and damage
Wildfire damage to vehicles is usually covered with comprehensive insurance. This type of coverage protects against car damage not caused by collisions, like losses from severe weather or falling objects.
Most states require comprehensive car insurance coverage when financing or leasing a vehicle; however, it’s not legally required in any state. Carrying only a state’s minimum coverage levels means it likely won’t be insured against wildfire damage. But with a standard car insurance policy with comprehensive coverage, in the event of wildfire smoke exposure and damage to a vehicle, the following may be covered:
Review the terms, conditions, exclusions, and coverage limits of the policy to see what’s covered and what’s not. Generally, damage from wildfire smoke is covered.
What car insurance might not cover
A standard car insurance policy likely won’t cover:
Minor smoke odor, although this varies by policy
General wear and tear
Routine maintenance (like replacing air filters due to smoke)
Damages from non-fire sources
Read more: 12 things car insurance doesn’t cover
Tips for preventing and dealing with smoke exposure to a home and car
Tips for homeowners
Document damage in case a homeowners insurance claim is necessary.
Keep windows and doors closed.
Avoid exercising or other strenuous activities to reduce inhalation of air.
Consider purchasing a portable air cleaner or a high-efficiency HVAC filter.
Use “recirculate” mode with a central HVAC system.
Cover evaporative cooler air intakes with high-efficiency furnace filters.
Close the outdoor air damper on window air conditioners.
Avoid using portable air conditioners with single hoses while it’s smoky outside.
Consider purchasing N95 respirator masks if the air quality is poor.
Wear protective gear, including an N95 respirator mask, when cleaning up ash.
Tips for car owners
Document damage in case a car insurance claim is necessary.
If possible, park indoors to avoid smoke and ash.
Keep car doors and windows closed.
Wear protective gear, including an N95 respirator mask, when cleaning up ash.
Read more: What I learned after a house fire, according to an insurance expert
