Most families can't stay in a home with fire or heavy smoke damage. Here's how people usually handle the first nights and the weeks after.
Tonight
Family, friends or a hotel. The American Red Cross can help with emergency lodging, food and basics if you need it.
The coming weeks
Many homeowners policies include additional living expenses (ALE) for a rental or extended hotel stay while the home is repaired. Ask your insurer about limits.
Keep every receipt
Hotel, meals above your normal food costs, laundry, mileage. ALE usually reimburses the extra cost of living away from home.
Quick checklist
- Place for tonight
- Ask insurer about ALE
- Save every receipt
General information, not advice for your specific policy or property. Updated October 2026.
