After a fire has caused damage to a home or business, it may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the fire for insurance purposes. In these cases, the best solution is to call in a fire investigator that has experience with these matters and can provide a professional assessment of both the source of the fire as well as the extent of the damage. A qualified investigator should be able to also stand as a fire expert witness in legal proceedings if needed. In the Los Angeles and Orange County area, Robert Rowe is considered to be one of the few qualified experts with the experience and knowledge needed to complete a full investigations.

When using a professional investigator to assess fire damage, it is important to know what to expect. The National Fire Protection Association has created a document that implements investigation standards to the industry. Knows as NFPA 921, the guidelines presented by the document govern how a professional should complete the investigation and deliver their findings. In addition to NFPA 921, the association is also responsible for NFPA 1033, which outlines the qualifications needed to be a professional in this industry. Both standards are used by the United States judicial system as the basis of any investigation into a fire.

A fire investigation should take place as soon as possible after the fire to be as thorough and complete as possible. After completing the investigation, the expert will need to present a full report that details the results as well as a presentation of evidence that was used to determine the source of the fire. A good investigator will also be able to fully explain the results of the investigation in a court setting. With many insurance companies requiring a detailed investigation before reimbursing a home or business owner for their losses, the professional should be able to work as a third-party objective perspective between the owner, insurance companies, and attorneys.