Free 1-Hour Webinar on Thursday, April 30th, 2026 at 10:00am Pacific Time
Introduction
The scientific investigation to determine a fire's origin and cause is a critical component when insurance claims become complex and transition toward litigation. A reliable fire expert's findings must be firmly rooted in factual science and adhere to rigorous industry standards, notably NFPA 921 and 1033.
This program offers a detailed look at the expert's systematic methodology. We discuss how key fire patterns and effects are used to establish the area of origin, and we demonstrate how identifying the heat source, the first material ignited, and the sequence of fire progression is used to establish the likely cause of a fire.
Drawing on the panel's seasoned experience in forensic property loss investigation, this presentation equips attendees effectively integrate the expert's findings into their professional work. You will be prepared to critically evaluate the technical evidence and its implications for your claims or overall legal strategy.
Program Outline
Introduction
The Basics
Origin Determination: Fire Patterns
Origin Determination: Fire Effects
Cause Determination: Fuel
Cause Determination: Ventilation
Cause Determination: Fire Progression
Cause Determination: Ignition Sources
Conclusion
Learning Objectives
Explain the critical distinctions between public and private fire investigators, including who hires them and the differing burdens of proof in their respective investigations.
Review the role of industry standards (like NFPA 921 and 1033) and factual science in fire investigations to ensure proper claims handling and protect against liability exposure.
Articulate how key fire patterns and effects are used by fire experts to systematically determine both the area of origin and the cause of a fire.
Discuss how to properly integrate the findings and opinions of a fire origin and cause expert with a property damage expert's assessment and the overall legal strategy in a subrogation or liability claim.
Our Panel
Dan Bonelli
Investigator
Pete Fowler Construction
Greg Beutz
Investigator
Pete Fowler Construction
Kris Cherevas
Managing Partner
Cozen O'Connor
Continuing Education
This webinar is applying for continuing education credit for both attorneys and insurance professionals in the following states: Florida, Nevada, California, and Texas.
NOTE: Many states acknowledge reciprocal credit for courses certified through the Texas Department of Insurance. Be sure to review the guidelines specific to your state, and verify the process for obtaining credit for a course approved with the state of Texas.
The CEU Institutes will be the continuing education provider for our webinars in 2026. Any questions regarding continuing education credit can be directed toward their compliance team by emailing rosters@ceuinstitute.net
This provider does not accept poll responses submitted via the chat function. All three of polling question answers must show on the specific poll report generated by Zoom Webinar to count for credit.
It can take up to 30 days for credit processing and certificate distribution.