Fire Insurance Claim Checklist

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Your complete guide to filing, documenting, and maximizing your fire insurance payout.

Before you think about paperwork, safety comes first.
✔️ Steps:

Wait for fire officials to declare your property safe to enter.
Take photos or video from a distance if the property is unsafe.
Prevent further damage by:
Boarding up windows
Tarping roofs
Turning off utilities (gas, water, electricity)
Contact fire department or local building officials for a copy of the fire report (your insurance company will need it).
Keep receipts for any emergency services (board-up, tarping, etc.) — they’re often reimbursable.

✔️ Steps:

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claim.
Ask for your claim number and the name/contact info of your assigned adjuster.
Request a full copy of your insurance policy (including endorsements and declarations page).
Document every call — date, time, and person you spoke with.
Ask for written confirmation of your coverage for:
Dwelling (structure)
Personal property (contents)
Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
Debris removal and cleanup

✔️ Steps:

✔️ Steps:

Make a list of every damaged or destroyed item, including:
Description (brand, model, color, etc.)
Approximate age and purchase date
Replacement cost
Condition before fire
Room location
Include photos or receipts if available.
Use your House Fire Solutions Home Inventory Spreadsheet (you can link this checklist to it).
Remember: Even small items add up — don’t overlook clothing, dishes, decor, and tools.

✔️ Steps:

If your home is unlivable, your insurance covers temporary living costs.
✔️ Steps:

Keep all receipts for:
Hotel or rental costs
Meals and groceries
Laundry or storage
Pet boarding
Transportation
Record all expenses in your House Fire Solutions Expense Tracker (you already have this template).
Submit ALE receipts monthly to stay reimbursed regularly.

✔️ Steps:

Have professionals assess the full damage (structure, smoke, water).
Get at least two or three written repair estimates from licensed contractors.
Include estimates for:
Structural repair
Electrical and plumbing
HVAC and roof
Smoke remediation and deodorization
Keep copies of all written reports and contractor licenses.
Do not rely solely on the insurance company’s adjuster — get your own opinions.

✔️ Steps:

✔️ Steps:

Request written communication whenever possible.
Keep a claim log (date, person, topic, summary).
Save emails, letters, and texts related to your claim.
Keep everything in one digital folder or binder — this can save you weeks later.

✔️ Steps:

When you receive your settlement, verify:
The check matches your claim and coverage.
Payments aren’t “final” if work is incomplete.
You’re paid separately for dwelling, contents, and ALE.
Ask your insurer for a breakdown of how they calculated depreciation.
Dispute underpayment in writing — politely but firmly.
Keep proof of all deposits and how funds were spent (banks or mortgage companies may require it).

✔️ Steps:

Hire a public adjuster or independent insurance consultant if:
The insurer delays or lowballs your claim.
You’re overwhelmed with documentation.
The damage is severe (partial or total loss).
Consult an attorney specializing in fire insurance claims if needed.
Use trusted professionals vetted by House Fire Solutions — it’s our mission to connect homeowners with reliable experts.

✔️ Steps:

Keep digital and paper copies of all claim documents for at least 5 years.
Request a certificate of completion from contractors when work is done.
Update your insurance policy after rebuilding (adjust coverage for improvements).
Schedule an annual review with your insurance agent to stay protected.