Pack-out and contents custody

Assign IDs before categories drift

Use a consistent item or box ID, original room, description and condition record. A broad category can be useful for organizing similar contents, but valuable, private or disputed items may need individual records. Clarify how the provider’s IDs connect to the owner’s inventory.

Ask how necessary safe handling can proceed while evidence and authorization are preserved. Do not handle or move potentially hazardous contents yourself to complete the list.

Follow custody and decisions

Ask about private and special items

Documents, device data, keys, medications and personal photographs may require privacy or specialist arrangements. An initial website enquiry should describe the category without transmitting the private contents. Ask the provider how access and custody are controlled.

Keep conservation, product-safety and insurance questions separate. A storage receipt is not a finding that an item is suitable to return to use.

Reconcile before closing

• Do pickup and return IDs match?
• Which items were treated, disposed of or remain stored?
• Is each disposition supported and authorized?
• Which charges and terms were agreed?
• Who handles missing items or a return-condition concern?

References and scope

1. ANSI/IICRC S700: fire and smoke restoration — IICRC.
   First edition2025; published scope only. Wildfire and exposure evaluation are not comprehensively addressed. The paid standard has not been reproduced.
2. Wildfires and property insurance — Government of Alberta.
   Policy wording and limits vary. Coverage, valuation and payment decisions require the actual policy/claim.

Source links checked September30,2026. General guidance and original planning questions do not establish the condition, exposure risk or clearance of a property.