<prompt> Human: The house was empty when it happened and no one got hurt.The circumstances are not completely known but so far the the picture looks like this:The fire spread from a nearby field outside the property and the house was ignited from the outside.We assume it isnt arson.My dad is a private dr. with a small clinic at the now burned down house.My question are - Whats the smartest way to deal with the situation and the insurance company? Whats the best approach to getting our stuff back from the insurance company? Is there anything you should always do when something like this happens?I lack basic knowledge on house insurance as Ive never owned a house, also I am not so keen on the details of the contract with the insurance company but I know there is one.E: thanks for the replies everyone. You all are very helpful.  <response>: The smartest way to deal with the situation is to contact your insurance company and start the claims process. A claims adjuster will be assigned to your case, and help you through everything. You will have to document everything you lost. Usually, youll get an immediate check to cover the depreciated value of those lost items, and as you re-build the house and re-buy belongings, you can submit for replacement value cost reimbursement, assuming your policy covers replacement cost. 