Claim guide

What to do after a house fire: the first days of your claim

By Carl Browning, independent adjuster, 15+ years

The first days after a fire are overwhelming. This guide puts things in order so you don't lose track of the details that matter later.

Safety first

Don't re-enter until the fire department says it's safe. Ask for a copy of the fire report or the report number.

Call your insurer

Report the claim, write down the claim number and ask about additional living expenses (ALE) if you can't stay in the home.

Keep every receipt

Hotels, meals beyond your normal costs, clothing, toiletries, mileage. Store receipts in one folder or envelope.

Document, don't discard

Photograph damaged rooms and items before anything is thrown out, unless it's a safety hazard. Your insurer may want to see them.

Start your contents list

List items room by room: what it was, about how old, and where you bought it. A home inventory makes this much easier.

Log every conversation

Date, name, claim number and what was agreed. It prevents confusion weeks later.

Education only. 24SevenClaims LLC is not a public adjuster and does not give legal advice or coverage determinations. Your policy and claim facts control.