What to Do After a Fire: Essential Guide to Documenting Damage

Posted February 19, 2025

Experiencing a fire can leave property owners facing immense loss and uncertainty. In the aftermath, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but taking the right steps to document the damage can make all the difference when dealing with insurance claims and restoration. This guide outlines what to do after a fire to ensure a smooth recovery process.

1. Prioritize Safety First

Before you begin documenting your property, ensure it is safe to enter. Fire-damaged buildings can be hazardous due to weakened structures, lingering smoke, and toxic fumes. Only re-enter after receiving clearance from the fire department, and wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, a respirator mask, long sleeves, and sturdy footwear to avoid exposure to soot and debris.

2. Take a Systematic Approach

To avoid missing important details, document your property methodically, moving room by room. If certain areas are unsafe, do not attempt to enter. Instead, consult a professional restoration expert for assistance.

3. Capture Detailed Photos and Videos

Thorough documentation is crucial for insurance claims. Take clear, high-resolution photos and videos from multiple angles, including:

• The exterior of the property, including the roof, doors, and windows
• Interior spaces, covering walls, ceilings, and flooring
• Structural damage, such as exposed wiring, warped beams, or compromised drywall
• Smoke and soot damage on surfaces and belongings
• Close-ups of valuable possessions, appliances, and furniture
• Hidden spaces like inside closets and storage areas

Ensure all images are timestamped to verify when they were taken.

4. Create a Comprehensive Inventory of Damaged Items

While taking photos, compile a list of damaged items. Include details such as:

• Item name and description
• Type and extent of damage (e.g., charring, smoke damage, warping)
• Approximate purchase date and original cost
• Supporting receipts, if available

Having this information readily available will streamline the claims process and help ensure fair compensation.

5. Obtain a Copy of the Fire Damage Report

The fire department will generate an official fire damage report outlining key details such as the cause of the fire, the extent of damage, and the emergency response measures taken. This document is critical when filing an insurance claim and can typically be requested from the responding fire department within a few days of the incident.

6. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide:

• The date and time of the fire
• A brief explanation of how it occurred
• A summary of the damage
• Contact information for your mortgage lender, if applicable

Since the fire damage report may not be immediately available, follow up with your insurance adjuster once it’s received to ensure all details are accounted for in your claim.

7. Identify Salvageable Items

While documenting the destruction, also make note of items that may be restored. Common salvageable materials include:

• Hardwood flooring (if not severely charred or warped)
• Metal, glass, and ceramic objects
• Clothing and textiles that can be professionally cleaned

Creating this list will help prioritize restoration efforts and ensure recoverable items are addressed before further deterioration occurs.

8. Secure and Store Documentation

Make digital and physical copies of all documentation, including your lists, photos, receipts, and official reports. Store them in a secure location or upload them to a cloud-based service to ensure they remain accessible even if original copies are lost.

9. Keep Track of Fire-Related Expenses

Beyond property damage, fire-related expenses such as temporary accommodations, repairs, and restoration services can quickly add up. Retain receipts for:

• Emergency repairs and boarding up services
• Professional cleaning and debris removal
• Contractor and restoration service fees
• Temporary housing and living expenses

Your insurance policy may cover many of these costs, but proper documentation is key to reimbursement.

10. Engage a Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company

While documenting the damage is crucial, restoring your property to a safe and livable condition is just as important. Fire damage restoration professionals are trained to mitigate further loss, salvage items where possible, and ensure proper cleaning and repairs.

Make EMRG Your First Call for Fire Damage Documentation and Restoration

Documenting fire damage can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. EMRG members can assist in properly documenting the damage, working directly with your insurance provider to streamline the claims process. Before taking on the burden yourself, reach out to an EMRG member to ensure your documentation is thorough and accurate.

In times of crisis, property owners and policyholders have the right to choose their own restoration contractor. With so much at stake, it’s essential to work with professionals you can trust.

That’s where EMRG comes in. Our network of vetted and highly experienced restoration contractors is in your neighbourhood – from coast to coast. When you choose an EMRG member, you gain access to:

• Certified and Reputable Contractors – EMRG members are selected based on their expertise, certifications, and proven track record in fire damage restoration.
• Rapid Response – Fires leave behind immediate and long-term hazards. EMRG members act fast to secure your property, minimize further damage, and begin the recovery process.
• Insurance Liaison Assistance – Navigating insurance claims can be complex. EMRG contractors work directly with insurers to ensure accurate documentation and efficient claims processing.
• Comprehensive Restoration Services – From smoke and soot removal to structural repairs and content restoration, EMRG members provide full-service fire damage recovery.
• Peace of Mind – With a trusted EMRG professional on your side, you can focus on recovery while knowing your property is in expert hands..

Recover with Confidence—Contact EMRG Canada Today

Fires are devastating, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. When disaster strikes, trust an EMRG restoration specialist to restore your home or business. Contact us 24/7 at 1-844-344-3674 to start the path to recovery.