Order of checks
Start with what can hurt someone, then move to what the household needs to live in the house.
Propane first
Have your propane supplier inspect the tank, regulator and lines before service is restored. Heat can damage valves and relief devices, and lines can be crushed by fire equipment or falling trees. If you smell gas, leave the area and call 911.
Electricity next
Your electric cooperative or utility may need to inspect the service drop and meter. An electrician should check the panel and any circuits near the fire before power is used, especially the well pump circuit.
Then the well
Inspect the wellhead, cap and the pump house if there is one. Heat can melt plastic components and wiring, and ash or firefighting runoff can enter an uncapped or damaged well.
Then the septic
Heavy fire equipment may have driven over the tank or leach field. Look for sinking ground, broken lids or wet spots, and have the system evaluated if anything looks wrong.
What fire can do to each system
| System | Possible damage | Who to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Propane tank and lines | Damaged valves or regulator, scorched tank paint, crushed or melted lines | Your propane supplier |
| Well and pump | Melted wiring or pressure switch, damaged cap, ash or debris contamination | A licensed well or pump contractor; El Paso County Public Health for testing guidance |
| Water lines and storage | Melted plastic pipe near the surface, damaged pressure tank in a burned outbuilding | A plumber |
| Septic tank and field | Crushed lids or pipes from heavy vehicles, burned risers | A septic professional; El Paso County Public Health for permits |
| Generator and fuel | Damaged fuel lines or enclosure | An electrician or the equipment dealer |
Why these systems often get overlooked
Insurance adjusters and restoration crews focus on the house. Propane tanks may be owned by the supplier, wells sit out in the yard and septic systems are underground, so damage to them doesn't always end up on the first estimate. Ask that each one be inspected and listed in the claim, and keep the inspection reports.
Outbuildings matter too. Many rural properties have a barn, shop or pump house that holds equipment for the well or the generator. If one of those burned, the house may be undamaged but still unlivable until water and power are restored. Ask your insurer how other structures on the property are covered, since limits for detached buildings are often a separate figure on the policy.
Finally, consider water for the next fire. Rural fire districts often value an accessible water source and a clear driveway for engines. Rebuilding is a good time to widen a narrow driveway, add a turnaround and clear space around the propane tank.
General information for Colorado Springs, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.