This document summarizes a presentation on investigating and defending liability claims related to hot work and welding fires. It discusses key issues such as the standard of care, including NFPA and OSHA regulations; identifying the responsible party according to codes and permits; challenges like determining the fire's origin and considering the time lapse between welding and fire; and developing an expert opinion on the cause and responsibilities related to the fire. The goal is to provide an overview of how to successfully investigate and evaluate these complex cases.