ABSTRACT

Much of the work of the independent forensic investigator deals with incidents that do not necessarily involve the commission of a crime. They do, however, involve injury to persons, property or the environment, which may result in an action before the civil courts or a sworn hearing before an arbitrator. As an independent fire investigator in the Republic of Ireland, I accept instructions both from the insurance industry and from representatives of private clients. My brief is to investigate the causes of fires, and note any circumstances which may have contributed to the severity of injury to persons or damage to property. The insurer needs to know whether a fire was accidental or deliberate; whether insurance policy conditions (warranties) have been fulfilled; whether there has been negligence on the part of their insured or a third party, or contributory negligence on the part of injured parties. Have there been breaches of statutory duty under the civil law, or breaches of planning or bye laws? Has there been compliance with building and fire regulations? Were electrical, gas and oil installations carried out in accordance with recognised standards? Has there been non-disclosure of business carried on or equipment installed in domestic premises? Was all the damage claimed for caused by a particular incident? Was all the property listed actually on the premises? How can such losses be avoided or minimised in the future? The private client looks for evidence to support or defend a claim for damages, or to assist him in a dispute with his insurers.