Services
Fire Investigation and Explosive Materials
Fire and explosion investigations involve the scientific examination of scenes, materials and outcomes to understand how fire or an explosion started, developed and potentially caused damage or harm. This evidence can be central to disputes over causation, liability, sequence of events and safety compliance in criminal, regulatory and civil cases.
At Forensic Access, our fire investigation and explosive materials experts provide independent, impartial evaluation and expert opinion where fire or explosion evidence is contested, complex or pivotal to the issues in dispute. Our specialists interpret scene findings, material evidence and other relevant data within a robust scientific framework that legal professionals and courts can rely on.
Types of Fire Investigation Case Instructions
Our fire investigation and explosive materials experts are instructed in a wide range of cases where the origin, development or effects of a fire or explosion are disputed or central to the issues.
We are commonly instructed in matters involving:
Fatal or serious injury fires where cause and development are contested
Residential, commercial or industrial fires with uncertain origin
Explosions and blast events where explosive materials or devices are involved
Disputed accounts of how a fire started or spread
Cases involving allegations of arson or incendiary behaviour
Collateral damage and causation issues in civil or insurance disputes
Assessment of ignition sources, accelerants or explosive residues
Evaluation of fire dynamics, fuel load, ventilation and related factors
Historic fires or explosions where legacy evidence requires review
Our experts work closely with legal professionals to ensure fire and explosion evidence is interpreted in its proper scientific and contextual framework, with alternative explanations explored where appropriate.
Fire Investigation and Explosive Materials Services
Our fire investigation and explosive materials specialists provide independent evaluation and expert witness services across all key aspects of fire and explosion analysis.
Our services include:
Scene examination and documentation of fire and explosion evidence
Analysis of ignition sources, patterns of burn and progression of fire
Examination and interpretation of evidence for accelerants or explosive residues
Evaluation of material failure, energy release and combustion phenomena
Reconstruction of fire development and sequence of events
Assessment of witness statements in light of scientific evidence
Evaluation of electrical, mechanical, chemical and other potential ignition factors
Interpretation of fire effects on structures, vehicles and exhibits
Preparation of expert witness reports, participation in case conferences and evidence in court
Expert Reports, Reviews and Defence Case Support
Forensic Access prepares independent expert reports and case reviews for use in forensic investigations, legal proceedings and civil disputes.
Our fire investigation and explosive materials experts are instructed to review and critically assess fire scene evidence, laboratory findings and other analytical conclusions obtained by the prosecution or other parties, and to advise on evidential strengths, weaknesses and alternative interpretations at all stages of a case.
Each instruction is managed by our dedicated casework team, who work closely with legal professionals to scope instructions, coordinate expert input and oversee case progression. This ensures structure and continuity throughout the instruction process.
Our work includes the preparation of expert witness reports, participation in case conferences and joint expert discussions, and attendance at court.
How We Support Your Case
Our dedicated Casework Managers are a valuable resource for legal professionals, providing a single point of contact to manage all expert-related communication and administration throughout the life of a case.
Working closely with our network of independent fire investigation and explosive materials specialists, they oversee instructions from initial enquiry through to delivery of the expert report, ensuring cases are progressed efficiently, proportionately and with appropriate awareness of court requirements.
Why work with Forensic Access
Trusted network of experienced fire investigators
Quality checks to ensure reports address the instruction
Quotes obtained from independent experts in line with LAA requirements
Dedicated casework management from instruction to court
Maintain high standards of quality across every instruction
Do you need fire investigation or explosive materials expertise for your case?
Whether you are reviewing fire scene evidence, interpreting complex findings or seeking independent expert opinion, we are here to help.
What Our Customers Say
“Thank you for your work in relation to the joint report, the whole team is very grateful. Thank you so much for your help and please pass on our thanks to your firearms expert.”
"I am consistently impressed by the quality of expert reports I receive through Forensic Access. Whether in toxicology, psychiatric reports or traffic reconstruction, the level of experience of the experts is consistently strong. We can be confident in their ability to give evidence in court if / when required."
"Forensic Access provided an excellent service with regards to our enquiry, which was impressive and very appreciated. The casework manager for our case was very professional and courteous."
"I have used Forensic Access for many years, instructing a wide range of experts. Every person I have dealt with has been helpful, friendly, and kind. I am impressed by the quality of the experts."
"The Forensic Access experts we have instructed have been extremely knowledgeable, informative, easy to work with and able to explain complex topics in straightforward language that the court and juries are able to understand. We have no hesitation in using the same experts for future cases."
"I consistently receive helpful same day responses, which is invaluable because it allows me to know exactly where I stand. The fact that they usually have multiple experts available, allowing me to obtain two quotes for legal aid applications, is also extremely helpful."
Let's talk
*Please note that we can only take instruction via a Barrister or Solicitor, we do not take instruction directly from private individuals.
We are always interested in talking to experienced forensic scientists with a minimum of 5 years of forensic science work who are interested in working as Consultants to undertake ad-hoc work for us.
Call us
01235 774870
Email us
science@forensic-access.co.uk