History and experience dictate that economic factors impact the amount and type of fire claims made during the recorded time periods of recessions and high unemployment rates. Those fire rates, currently low due to the unprecedented numbers of Americans currently homebound, are expected to increase as the easing of social distancing requirements commence and government restrictions on foreclosures, evictions, repossessions and legal actions expire.
The insurance industry response to fire claims will need to include the retention of certified and experienced Origin and Cause Investigators that meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 1033 and conduct thorough scene and financial background investigations in accordance with the Scientific Method and guidelines set forth in NFPA 921.
Investigations involving thorough investigative steps and actions as well as reporting will be required to identify potential subrogation targets and other interested parties, assist in the preparation of examinations under oath, and withstand challenges during potential litigation processes.
This white paper, authored by Henry Stormer, IAAI-CFI (V), CFPS, outlines historical statistics of fire claims in the context of recessionary cycles and provides investigative steps and actions for fire claim investigations.
Please submit your information below to receive a copy of this whitepaper.
