Steps To Take When Filing A Fire Damage Claim

Ruel Law Firm • Apr 28, 2023

Experiencing a fire in your home can be a devastating experience. It can cause serious damage to your property and put your family’s safety at risk. Even if you have homeowners insurance, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.


Of course, you will want to file a home insurance claim to help cover the costs of repairing the damage to your home. Here are some key steps you should follow when filing a claim.


Contact Your Insurance Company


After a fire, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your policy may require that you report any damage within a certain time frame, so it’s important to act quickly. Your insurance company will ask for specific information about the fire, such as when it occurred, what caused it, and the extent of the damage.


Document the Damage 


Don’t do anything until you document the damage as thoroughly as possible. Take photos and videos of every room in your home, as well as any damaged belongings. Be as detailed as possible, as this documentation will be important evidence for your insurance claim.


Secure Your Property


After a fire, your home may be vulnerable to theft. It’s important to secure your property as soon as possible. You may have to board up broken windows or doors and remove valuables from the premises.


Work With Your Insurance Adjuster 


Once you’ve filed your claim, your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. They will determine the amount of compensation you can receive. Work closely with the adjuster and provide them with any documentation or information they request so they can process your claim as quickly as possible.


Get Several Estimates 


While your insurance company may recommend a company to repair or rebuild your home, it’s always a good idea to get several estimates from different contractors. Make sure you’re getting quality estimates and work for the price. If you’ve had custom work completed in your home, you may want to get an additional estimate from a specialized contractor who can properly repair or replace it.


Keep Track of Expenses


Besides property damage, you should receive compensation for any expenses you incur as a result of the fire. These expenses may include temporary lodging, food, and transportation. Your insurance policy may cover these costs, so be sure to keep track of all receipts and other documentation.


Contact Us Today


Experiencing a fire in your home is a traumatic event, but filing a homeowners insurance claim can help you recover and rebuild. If you are having trouble with your claim, it may be time to seek legal help.


A fire in your home can be even more stressful when your insurance company does not act fairly. A Lakeland fire damage insurance lawyer from Ruel Law Firm can provide you with legal advice and make sure you get adequate compensation to repair or replace your home. Call (833) RUEL-LAW or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.


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Source:


https://www.clovered.com/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-fire-damage/


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