The first hour feels unreal after fire damage in New Bern, NC. Smoke hangs, and your mind jumps to what the insurance will or will not cover. Breathe. We can slow this down. Simple steps restore control without risking safety.

Photos, lists, and receipts become proof that speeds approvals and improves accuracy. We keep children, seniors, and pets in mind. Follow a calm plan that protects your home and your claim, the routine teams use every day.

In this blog post, you will learn what to capture, how to build a clean claim file, and when to bring in a licensed team. You will find a timeline and links to insurance guidance that keep every step on track.

What To Capture: Photo And Video Checklist | Fire Damage in New Bern

Let’s keep this simple and safe. Use natural light where safe and move slowly.

  • One slow walk-through video per room, then stills of each wall and ceiling
  • Close shots of soot lines, blistered paint, char depth, and warped trim
  • Appliance model plates and serial numbers
  • Inside cabinets and drawers before any cleanup
  • HVAC returns, filters, and vents to show smoke movement
  • Contents grouped by room with quick notes on age and condition
  • Outdoor shots of roof, windows, doors, and utility meters

Place a paper or phone clock in one frame to anchor time. Add your address on one slip in the first room you film. For fire damage in New Bern, this checklist provides your adjuster with clear proof, eliminating guesswork.

Also Read: Signs Your Home May Have Hidden Water Damage 

Build the Claim file: Lists, Values, & Receipts

Use this quick checklist and keep it calm and simple.

  • Start one folder for photos, videos, and notes
  • Create a contents list for each room
  • Add quantity, brand, approximate age, and today’s value
  • Link product pages or past receipts when you can
  • Save emergency receipts for lodging, clothing, meals, and safety supplies
  • Attach estimates and any board-up or tarp invoices
  • Date each file and name it clearly
  • Keep a call log with names and times
  • Back up a copy to cloud storage
  • After labels are tidy, share with your adjuster

Work With Your Insurer and the Restoration Team | Fire Damage in New Bern

Once you have the first photos and a safe place to stay, call your carrier. Ask for your claim number, the adjuster’s name, and a target inspection date. Request guidance on temporary repairs and save every receipt.

When the restoration crew arrives, ask for an itemized scope, moisture readings, an odor control plan, and simple daily updates. Confirm how the contents will be packed, labeled, and tracked. Share your folder to reduce repeat visits.

See our insurance information for homeowners page to learn which documents help expedite approvals.

Not-To-Make Mistakes That Shrink Payouts

Small missteps can slow a claim.

Hold off on wiping walls until photos are taken. Photograph items before discarding them, and add a line to your list. Keep the HVAC off until a technician checks it. Leave wet electronics unplugged. Read contracts with care.

When unsure, pause and document. For fire damage, this policy protects your payout.

Organize Your Fire Damage Claim with Care

Let us help you organize proof that carriers respect. Premier Restoration Service Kinston will align photos, lists, and receipts into a clean claim file, then provide a named supervisor, an itemized estimate, moisture readings, and photo logs.

For Fire damage in New Bern, you get updates, deodorization steps, and guidance from stabilization to rebuild, so your claim moves with less friction.

Book a visit for fire damage restoration in Kinston at (252) 713-4107.