It’s important you understand your homeowners insurance policy before a fire occurs. Read your policy carefully. A basic insurance policy covers perils, which include specifically named risks such as fire and smoke.

It will be easier to file an insurance claim if you have a complete written inventory of your property, including serial numbers, photographs or videotapes. After a fire it’s almost impossible to remember everything you lost. Keep your inventory and photographs or videotapes in a safe place away from home (e.g., in a safety deposit box), along with supporting receipts, bills and canceled checks.