First 24–48 hours
What to do immediately, what to document, and what not to throw away too soon.
Free fire claim resource
Fire Damage Claim Guide
Learn what to document, what to save, and what to watch for before accepting the insurance company’s offer after a fire, smoke, or soot loss.
- Fire, smoke, soot, contents, and ALE claim guidance
- Documentation checklists and worksheets
- Built for policyholders — not insurance companies
- No fee unless we are successful in getting you more money
What’s inside
A practical guide for the first days and weeks after a fire.
Fire claims can involve smoke, soot, water from firefighting, personal property, temporary housing, contractor bids, and disputes over repair scope. This guide helps you stay organized and avoid costly documentation mistakes.
Damage documentation
Photo, video, contents, smoke, soot, and structural documentation checklist.
Living expenses
How to track ALE expenses like housing, mileage, meals, storage, and pet boarding.
Low offers & disputes
Warning signs that the insurance company’s fire estimate may be incomplete.
Before cleanup starts
Fire damage can be bigger than what the insurance estimate shows.
Even when flames are contained, smoke, soot, odor, moisture, and chemical residue can spread throughout the property. Proper documentation can make the difference between a low estimate and a better-supported claim.
Get the Guide