In most fire investigations and almost all subrogation matters, evidence of some nature needs to be retained. Other parties, beyond the initial investigator, will need an opportunity to examine the evidence, and any irregularities in the way the evidence has been stored or handled can cause problems. In addition, when a product liability claim is investigated by NFC, the object of the claim needs to be secured while the issue of liability is sorted out.

National Forensic Consultants, Inc. contracts with Evidence Warehouse, Inc. for the proper handling of all aspects of evidence custody. The property is:

• Properly secured at the loss site directly by our consultant or an EWI Evidence Manager
• Documented by signed Chain of Custody forms
• Transported directly to their secure, sprinklered, alarmed evidence storage facility
• Wrapped, packaged and palletized as necessary
• Organized by customized archive and retrieval database

EWI's facilities are well-equipped for on-site inspections:

• Large, open inspection area
• Examination tables and tools
• Personal safety equipment
• Heavy-duty material handling equipment
• Lighted photography table with camera mount

In addition to potential fire origins (stoves, toasters, lamps, etc.) cracked plumbing, leaking fixtures, ruptured oil tanks, and blown tires are also common items held as evidence. Whatever the item, EWI has the knowledge and experience to safeguard your evidence.

Upon the completion of your case, your evidence can be returned to you or securely disposed of by EWI.