08/21/2026
After experiencing a house fire, I’ve learned so much about what happens after the fire is out. If someone you know ever experiences this, here are a few things that may make an incredibly difficult time just a little easier.
1. Offer them somewhere to stay.
If you have the space and feel comfortable opening your home, consider offering them a place to stay for a few nights. Insurance may eventually cover hotel or alternative living expenses, but it can take time for everything to be approved and arranged. Depending on their immediate financial situation, waiting for reimbursement may not be an option.
2. Help with basics.
After a fire, people suddenly need everything—clothes, toiletries, shoes, medications, chargers, and so much more. If you can shop for them, offer a gift card, or bring a meal it means more than you realize.
We were advised to take as little as possible from the home. Smoke, soot, ash and melted plastics can contaminate belongings, and it’s difficult to know what is safe to handle and keep, what can be cleaned and what should be gotten rid of.
3. Call the Red Cross right away.
This is one I wish someone had told us. Contact the Red Cross as soon as possible after the fire. Their assistance is time-sensitive, and unfortunately, we didn’t realize we needed to contact them until it was too late for us to receive their help.
4. Don’t rush to settle with the insurance company. You are overwhelmed, exhausted and trying to figure out what to do next. Insurance will have its process, but you don’t have to feel pressured to accept the first offer or rush to settle.
You may want to consider hiring a public adjuster to help understand your policy, document your losses and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Do your research to interview and understand the fees before hiring anyone.
When someone loses their home, they aren’t just losing things. They’re suddenly trying to navigate an overwhelming process while grieving the loss of their normal life.
I hope none of you ever need this information. But if you know someone who does, I hope it helps.
These are lessons from our personal experience, not insurance or legal advice. Every fire and insurance policy is different.
