Short answer
Yes. You can sell a fire-damaged house as it is, but disclose what you know about the damage and repairs. If the buyer plans to demolish the house or convert it to non-residential use, the disclosure law does not apply. Talk to your insurer and lender before selling, and check with the city if the building is unsafe.
Disclosure after a fire
Pennsylvania's Seller Disclosure Law requires you to disclose known material defects on the property disclosure statement. Fire damage touches several subjects on the statutory list: structural problems, electrical system, plumbing, heating, roof, and additions and remodeling, if you rebuilt part of the house. If repairs were made, say what was done and by whom.
There is an exception that may matter. The law does not apply to a transfer of property that the buyer will convert to a non-residential use or demolish. A buyer's plan has to be real, so ask an attorney before you rely on it.
Insurance and your lender first
Before you sell, talk to your insurance company about any open claim and to your mortgage servicer about how claim money is handled. This answer did not review insurance or lender rules, so it does not state them. Selling before a claim is settled can affect what you receive, and your lender may have a say in how proceeds are used.
Keep every document: the claim, adjuster reports, photos, contractor estimates and any permits. Buyers and title companies will ask for them.
Safety and the city
A badly burned house may be considered unsafe. In Philadelphia, L&I says that for structurally dangerous buildings and vacant properties open to trespass it is authorized to correct unsafe conditions and can collect the cost through liens on the property. A lien from that work would have to be paid at settlement.
Secure the house, board openings and keep the city's notices. Outside Philadelphia, contact the local code office.
Selling as-is
Fire-damaged houses often sell as-is to investors and builders, because they can handle the scope. Buyers using a mortgage rarely qualify for a badly damaged house. Expect the price to reflect repair cost, smoke and water damage, code upgrades and permit time.
If the damage is limited and you have insurance money to repair, a repaired house may sell for more. If not, selling as-is can stop the carrying costs.
Be ready for questions about the cause of the fire, because buyers and their insurers will ask. If a fire report exists, keep a copy and give it to the buyer if asked.
Where Kaizen fits
Kaizen Home Buyers buys houses as-is, with no repairs from you, makes a cash offer within 24 hours and charges no agent commission. We typically close in 14 to 30 days or on your date. Tell us about the fire and your insurance status at 267-329-0084. Compare the offer with what a repaired listing might bring after repair cost and time.
A cash sale can also be a way to end the carrying costs of a house you cannot live in. Weigh that against any insurance payout you may still be owed.