How Apartment Fire Investigations Impact the Neighbors.
Latest question from a meierfire.com reader. The subject – Apartment fire investigations.
L asks: “Will the investigation take place in the entire building or just in the apartment where the fire started?”
The Answer is…it depends.
Apartment Fire Investigations can get complicated, quickly.
In typical apartment fire investigations, fire investigators will inspect the outside of the building, the hallways and any damaged apartments. Next, they, depending on circumstances, examine the fire alarm/suppression equipment. Further, they may want to look at similar apartments. They look for maintenance issues, layout, smoke alarms. With smoke alarms, they need to know several things:
- if there are smoke alarms
- what kind of smoke alarms?
- what condition they are in (painted over , detached, batteries)
- make & model, and age
- do they work.?
They might look at the other apartments for escape (egress) issues. Investigators record the like size, shape and condition of windows and doors. If you have smoke or water damage, the investigators and claims adjusters will want to inspect your unit to assess the damage.
Does the investigator need to inform me?
The investigators, attorneys, landlord or insurance adjusters should inform you that they want to look at your unit and schedule a convenient time for you. In a criminal investigation, fire you might have to deal with a search warrant or exigent circumstances*. You should consult an attorney if you even suspect you are the target of the investigation.
Sometimes your lease contains a have clauses that allows the landlord or their agents to inspect your unit. (But I’m not a lawyer and can’t say definitely.) Your renter’s insurance policy obligates you to participate in any investigation related to your claim or damages. Your claim can be denied if you refuse. Consult a local attorney that deals with insurance issues specific questions.
More Resources for Apartment Dwellers
Find an insurance lawyer on Avvo.com
Find a criminal attorney on Avvo.com
Read about our Apartment Fire Investigation Services at https://www.meierfire.com/apartment-fire-investigation…/
*https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exigent_circumstance
