Forensic and insurance considerations in investigation of large loss fires

Large loss fires present challenges for the insurance, legal, and forensic communities with respect to organization and execution of fire scene investigations, identification of potential responsible parties, and subsequent collection, examination, and testing of evidence. A generalized methodology is presented for organizing a rapid response, initial analysis, development of 'expert teams', and agreements regarding evidence collection and examination and testing. The discussion stresses the necessity to adequately identify, document, and protect physical fire scene evidence relating both to fire origin and cause and to factors affecting fire growth and spread, so that parties who may be potential litigants have the opportunity to review and study that evidence.

Keywords:

• Large Loss Fires
• Spoliation
• Management Of Investigations
• Evidence Collection
• Evidence Testing
• Fire Litigation