How to Preserve What Shows How the Fire Started
Establishing that a utility started a fire depends on the ignition evidence and the utility's records — much of which experts and lawyers pursue. This checklist covers what you can note; your team handles the rest.
Note where the fire started, if known
If you know or hear where the fire is believed to have started, note it — the ignition area is central to a cause investigation.
Save any news and official reports
Keep news coverage and any official statements or investigation reports about the fire's cause; these can point to utility involvement.
Photograph relevant conditions
If safe, note or photograph nearby power lines, equipment, or vegetation conditions, which can be relevant to the cause.
Do not rely on the utility’s account
A utility has its own interest in the cause finding. Independent investigation, which your team arranges, is how the real cause is established.
Get a lawyer and experts involved early
Fire-cause experts and a lawyer can move to preserve the ignition evidence and demand the utility's records before they are lost.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to wildfire utility liability.
Not sure where you stand?
A quick, confidential review can tell you — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.