In this work we first review the statistical data on large fires in urban areas, presenting a detailed list of causes of fires, the type of damage to concrete and reinforced concrete structures. We also present the modern experimental approach for studying the fire-resistance of different structural components, along with the role of numerical modeling to provide more detailed information on quantifying the temperature and heat flux fields. In the last part of this work we provide the refined models for assessment of fire-induced damage in structures built of concrete and/or reinforced-concrete. We show that the refined models of this kind are needed to provide a more thorough explanation of damage and to complete the damage assessment and post-fire evaluations.