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What Evidence Do I Need for a Fire Damage Insurance Claim?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Start with Photos and Video

Take clear photos and videos of every affected room before anything is moved or cleaned. Capture wide shots of each wall, ceiling, and floor, then close-ups of charred or soot-covered items. Include the exterior of your home, especially the area where the fire started if it is safe to approach.

If you have a smartphone, use its video mode to walk through each space slowly. Narrate what you are seeing, naming items and noting their condition. This helps your insurance company understand the extent of the damage. Store all media in a cloud backup so it is not lost if your devices are damaged.

  • Wide shots of each room
  • Close-ups of damaged items
  • Exterior views of the home
  • Video walkthrough with narration
  • Cloud backup of all media

List Every Lost Item

Write a room-by-room inventory of everything that was damaged or destroyed. For each item, note the brand, model, approximate age, and purchase price if you remember it. This list is the backbone of your claim, so be thorough and honest.

Include items you might overlook, like clothing, books, kitchen utensils, and personal documents. For big-ticket items such as appliances, electronics, or furniture, try to find serial numbers or model tags. If you have a home video that shows your belongings, use it to jog your memory and add missing entries.

  • Brand and model for each item
  • Approximate age and purchase price
  • Serial numbers if available
  • Include clothing, books, and documents
  • Use old home videos to recall items

Gather Receipts and Appraisals

Collect any receipts, credit card statements, or bank records that show what you paid for damaged items. If you do not have receipts, look for appraisals, warranties, or owner's manuals that list the value. For jewelry, art, or antiques, a recent appraisal is especially helpful.

If you lack paperwork, you can still document value by noting the item's condition and comparing it to similar items online. Take photos of any serial numbers or engraved marks. Your insurance company may ask for proof of ownership, so keep any paper trail you can find, even partial records.

  • Receipts and credit card statements
  • Appraisals for jewelry or art
  • Warranties and owner's manuals
  • Photos of serial numbers
  • Online price comparisons for similar items

Get the Fire Department Report

Request a copy of the fire department's incident report, which states the cause of the fire if it is determined. This document is often required by your insurance company to process the claim. Ask the fire marshal's office how to obtain a copy, as procedures vary by locality.

The report may also list the extent of the damage and any hazards found. Keep a copy for your records, and provide one to your insurer when asked. If the fire is still under investigation, ask when the report will be available and follow up.

Track Temporary Living Costs

If the fire makes your home uninhabitable, save all receipts for hotel stays, meals, and other living expenses. Your insurance policy may cover these costs under loss of use, but you need to document every dollar spent. Keep a daily log of expenses and store receipts in a safe place.

Also record any extra costs like parking, laundry, or pet boarding. If you move to a rental, save the lease and utility bills. Your insurer will want a clear breakdown, so organize everything by date and category. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to file a fire damage claim?

Check your insurance policy for the deadline, which is often one year from the date of the fire. Some policies allow less time, so do not wait. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the process, even if you are still gathering evidence.

What if I do not have receipts for my belongings?

You can still file a claim. Use photos, videos, and online listings to show what you owned and its approximate value. Your insurance company may accept a detailed written inventory, but you may need to explain why you lack receipts. Be honest and thorough.

Should I clean up before the insurance adjuster sees the damage?

Do not throw away damaged items or clean surfaces until your insurer has inspected the property. Take photos first, then leave everything in place. If you must remove items for safety, keep them in a separate area and document them. Your adjuster needs to see the damage as it was.

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