Fire-Loss Document Checklist
Prepare for your casualty-loss appraisal with this comprehensive checklist of documents that help establish pre-fire and post-fire property value.
Important: An appraisal establishes fair market value — it does not by itself establish an allowable IRS deduction.
Coordinate tax matters with your CPA or tax attorney. Do not assume IRS acceptance, insurance claim approval, or a particular tax outcome.
Understand the difference between: fair market value before the casualty, fair market value after the casualty, cost of repairs, and insurance replacement cost.
Documents to Gather
Property address and Assessor Parcel Number (APN)
The full street address and county APN for the subject property.
Date of casualty (fire date)
The date the wildfire damage occurred or was first discovered.
Previous appraisal reports
Any prior appraisal reports for the property, if available.
Pre-fire photographs
Interior and exterior photos of the property before the fire, if available.
Post-fire photographs
Current photos showing the extent of damage.
Building permits and plans
Original building permits, construction plans, and any remodel documentation.
Repair estimates or contractor bids
Itemized repair estimates from licensed contractors.
Damage assessment reports
Any professional damage assessments or engineering reports.
Insurance documentation
Insurance claim correspondence, adjuster reports, and settlement offers.
Relevant property records
Title reports, deeds, tax records, and HOA documents if applicable.
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