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Independent Origin & Cause Investigations.

Every investigation is conducted using the scientific method outlined in NFPA 921 and supported by thorough documentation, evidence-based analysis, and defensible conclusions suitable for insurance claims, subrogation, and litigation. Terry Fire Investigations provides independent origin and cause investigations grounded in facts and focused on the truth.

Services

What we investigate.

Origin and cause work spans accidental, undetermined, and intentionally set fire investigations.

Primary services

Residential structure fires

Origin and cause investigations involving single-family residences, multi-family dwellings, intentionally set fires, and total-loss incidents.

Commercial & industrial fires

Origin and cause investigations involving commercial occupancies, warehouses, industrial facilities, and large-loss incidents.

Vehicle & heavy equipment fires

Origin and cause investigations involving passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, heavy equipment, and specialty vehicles.

Ignitable Liquid Detection K9

Tank assists with scene examinations and the identification of potential ignitable liquid evidence that may not be visible during a visual examination. Meet the K9 team

Specialized services

Marine vessel fires

Origin and cause investigations involving recreational and commercial vessels.

Wildland & WUI investigations

Origin and cause investigations involving wildland-urban interface incidents, rural properties, and undeveloped land.

Case review & expert witness services

Available for consultation, case review, deposition testimony, and expert witness services related to fire origin and cause investigations, including second-opinion reviews of existing origin and cause determinations.

Fees

Transparent fee structure.

Terry Fire Investigations utilizes a tiered fee structure based on scene complexity, documentation requirements, travel considerations, and overall scope of work. Fees are discussed and confirmed prior to engagement whenever possible to ensure there are no surprises regarding billing or scope. Assignments are quoted based on complexity, travel requirements, and anticipated scope. Contact Terry Fire Investigations for a project-specific proposal.

Structure fire with fire apparatus on scene at night

Approved vendor list

Adding TFI to your vendor list.

Building your approved vendor list? Contact Terry Fire Investigations to request our vendor qualification packet, including credentials, licensing, insurance information, and professional qualifications.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

What is a fire origin and cause investigation?

A systematic examination of a fire scene to determine where a fire started (origin) and what caused it. Each investigation is conducted using the scientific method outlined in NFPA 921 and supported by thorough documentation, evidence-based analysis, and defensible conclusions.

What types of fires does Terry Fire Investigations investigate?

Residential, commercial and industrial, vehicle and heavy equipment, marine vessel, and wildland/WUI fires, including accidental, undetermined, and intentionally set fire determinations.

Do you provide expert witness testimony?

Yes. Terry Fire Investigations is available for consultation, case review, deposition testimony, and expert witness services, including second-opinion reviews of existing origin and cause determinations.

What areas do you serve?

Northern California, including the Bay Area, Central Valley, Sacramento region, and Sierra Foothills, with statewide assignments accepted by arrangement.

How are fees determined?

Assignments are quoted based on complexity, travel requirements, and anticipated scope. Contact Terry Fire Investigations for a project-specific proposal.

Active loss? Approved vendor?

Request an Investigator.

Contact Terry Fire Investigations to discuss your assignment.

(209) 605-8656

For active losses or time-sensitive assignments, call directly.