After a Fire

Information for if your home or property has been affected by fire.

After a Fire

Information for if your home or property has been affected by fire.

We’re sorry that this happened to you. 

You may feel shocked, upset, and unsure of what to do next. This information provides a starting point to help you stay safe and begin recovery.

You don’t need to do everything at once.

Immediate safety:

  • If the fire is still a danger, or anyone is injured, call Triple-Zero (000).
  • Only re-enter the building if permitted by emergency services.
  • If disconnected, utilities must only be reconnected by a licensed tradesperson.
  • Do not touch, eat, or drink items contaminated by smoke or chemicals.
  • Protect the fire site from any further damage by weather, theft or vandalism. 

Getting help

It is normal to feel shocked, upset, or overwhelmed after a fire. Find out about Getting help for your mental health (act.gov.au).

There are organisations that may be able to provide additional assistance depending on your circumstances.

Australian Red Cross

Can provide disaster relief assistance.

See more about services that may be available after a natural disaster - Support after an emergency (act.gov.au).

Steps to take after a fire:

If you are a home owner: 

Contact your insurer as soon as practicable. They should advise you how to start a claim. You can ask your insurer about temporary accommodation, emergency living expenses and approved repair contractors.

If you are a tenant: 

Notify your landlord or real estate agent as soon as practicable. ACT Housing tenants should call: 1800 950 255

Securing your property:

Ensure your property is protected from weather and possible theft or vandalism. Lock where possible. Board up/cover where necessary.

Re-entering your property:

ACT Fire & Rescue have conducted an assessment of the property and will advise whether it can be re-occupied.

When re-entering your property please be cautious of:

  • Wiring which may have been damaged.
  • Weakened structural integrity of the building.

There may be a residual smell after a fire. If you’ve been allowed back inside, air quality has been assessed as low risk. Continue to ventilate your home by opening windows and doors. For ongoing concerns, contact an occupational hygienist.

Think about collecting:

  • Identification (license, passport, birth certificate
  • Wallet, purse, bank cards.
  • Medications, prescriptions, and medical devices.
  • Mobile phone, laptop/tablet, chargers
  • Keys
  • Essential documents (insurance, banking)

Be sure to clean or replace any Smoke Alarms that are dirty or damaged.

ACT Fire & Rescue will provide you with an incident handover form.  

The incident handover will contain any additional safety information that you might need to be aware of, as well as an incident number that you can provide to your insurance company.  

If you have further questions, visit the Contact Us page.

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