In the aftermath of a fire, it's hard to know what to do first. The most important things are your family's safety and not making decisions that could hurt your claim later. Take it one step at a time.
In the first hours and days
- Make sure everyone is safe and accounted for; don't re-enter until it's cleared
- Contact your insurer to report the loss
- Find a safe place to stay — keep receipts (this may be covered as additional living expenses)
- Don't throw anything away yet; damaged items are part of your claim
- Don't begin major cleanup before the loss is documented
Documenting a fire loss
A complete fire claim has several parts — structure, contents, smoke and water damage, and living expenses — and each is easy to under-document while you're grieving. You don't have to do it alone.
- Photograph and video everything before any cleanup
- Start a list of damaged and destroyed belongings
- Keep all receipts for lodging, food, and emergency needs
- Account for smoke and water damage beyond the burn area
A public adjuster handles the documentation and the insurer so you can focus on your family. We approach every fire claim with patience and care — and the inspection is free.