What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a House Fire

A house fire is one of the most traumatic events a family can experience. In the chaos and shock that follows, it is easy to make mistakes that can seriously hurt your insurance claim. Knowing exactly what to do — and what not to do — in those critical first 24 hours can make a significant difference in your recovery.

Here is a clear, step-by-step guide from our team at Capitol Adjustment.

Before anything else, confirm that every member of your household — including pets — is accounted for and safe. Do not re-enter the building until the fire department has declared it safe to do so. Structural damage from fire is not always visible, and smoke and carbon monoxide can remain at dangerous levels long after the flames are out.

If anyone has been injured, seek medical attention immediately.

Once your family is safe, call your insurance company to report the loss. You are typically required to notify your insurer promptly after a covered event. Have your policy number ready if possible.

Important: Reporting the claim is not the same as accepting a settlement. You are simply opening the file. Do not agree to any settlement figures or sign any documents at this stage.

This is one of the most critical steps — and one that homeowners most often skip.

Before any cleanup, restoration, or demolition begins, document the damage as thoroughly as possible:

• Take photos and videos of every room, every damaged item, and every affected area
• Capture wide shots and close-up detail shots
• Document the exterior of the home as well
• Note the date and time on your recordings if possible

This documentation becomes the foundation of your insurance claim. The more thorough it is, the harder it is for the insurance company to dispute the extent of your loss.

Your insurance policy likely requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your property. This is called your "duty to mitigate." Practical steps include:

• Boarding up broken windows and doors
• Covering damaged sections of the roof with tarps
• Removing standing water if water was used to fight the fire

Keep all receipts for any emergency protective measures you take. These costs are often reimbursable under your policy.

Even items that appear completely destroyed should not be discarded until your claim has been properly documented and inventoried. Insurance adjusters need to assess damaged personal property to determine its value. Disposing of items prematurely can reduce your settlement.

If items are a health or safety hazard, photograph them extensively before removal and keep a detailed list.

Most homeowner's insurance policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which pays for temporary housing, meals, and other costs while your home is being repaired. Contact your insurance company to understand what is covered and keep all receipts.

Here is something most homeowners do not know: the insurance company's adjuster works for the insurance company — not for you. Their job is to assess your loss in a way that protects the insurer's bottom line.

A public adjuster works exclusively for you. We review your policy, document your loss independently, and negotiate on your behalf to make sure you receive the full settlement you are entitled to.

The earlier we get involved, the better. Calling Capitol Adjustment before the insurance company's adjuster arrives allows us to:

• Conduct our own independent damage assessment
• Ensure no damage is overlooked or undervalued
• Advise you on what to say — and what not to say — to the insurance company

• Do not accept the first settlement offer without having it reviewed by a professional
• Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company without guidance
• Do not sign any releases until you fully understand what you are agreeing to
• Do not start major repairs until the damage has been fully documented and your claim is approved

At Capitol Adjustment, we have helped hundreds of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, and Connecticut homeowners navigate the claims process after a fire. We know what insurance companies look for — and we know how to make sure nothing gets missed.

If you or someone you know has experienced a house fire, call us at 267-343-7301 or request a free claim review. There is no cost to speak with us, and no obligation.