Art Talk is a series of rotating columns which explore current issues in the art market.

ART LAW
ART THEFT
ART TERMS
ART LINKS
BOOKS
COLLECTING CONTEMPORARY
DAMAGED ART
· Fire Damage Prevention
· Water Damage
·
Smoke Damage
· Storm/Hurricane Damage
DETERMINING THE VALUE OF
DONATED ART

INVESTING IN ART
INSURING FINE ART

FIRE PREVENTION

Never hang artwork or a valuable object over a fireplace. Heat, smoke and ash can easily ruin an artwork.

Install smoke detectors, not heat detectors, in rooms with precious objects. A heat detector will provide little protection against soot or smoke damage. Install smoke detectors within 100 feet of the objects you wish to protect.

Have electrics, heating and plumbing checked. Your boiler should be subject to an annual maintenance contract. Each Autumn, have your gutters and roof checked before winter, and sweep open fires annually.

In case of fire damage, do not attempt to restore anything. Your insurance provider will appoint professionals.