Fire And Smoke Damage Safety Checklist

This Fire and Smoke Safety Checklist walks you through the hazards to check before re-entering and documenting a property after a fire — structural stability, electrical and gas systems, air quality, and contaminated surfaces. It is designed to keep you safe while you gather the evidence your claim depends on.

A fire-damaged home can be dangerous long after the flames are out: weakened structures, live electrical hazards, and toxic soot residue are common. Documenting the loss matters, but not before the property is confirmed safe to enter. Knowing your options early also helps — including when a public adjuster can take the process off your hands.

Clear each safety item before you begin documentation, and defer anything flagged as hazardous to a professional. Once the property is safe, move straight into the fire and smoke claim submission checklist to organize your filing, and submit everything under your fire and smoke damage insurance claim.