When your home is damaged by fire, the aftermath can be devastating. Often, the only thing left behind is ash and debris. Homeowners across the country who have experienced fire losses understand how it can change lives in just a few short moments.
After the smoke clears, one of the most pressing questions is: “Does my homeowners insurance cover fire damage?”
In most cases, the answer is yes, but navigating the fire damage insurance claims process can be overwhelming. Understanding how your homeowners insurance and fire coverage work, as well as what steps to take after the fire, is essential to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fire Damage?
Most homeowners insurance policies include coverage for fire damage, but the extent of the coverage can vary based on the policy you have. Fire insurance typically covers the structure of your home and your personal belongings, but certain types of damage, such as smoke damage or water damage from extinguishing the fire, may require additional endorsements or provisions in your policy.
What to Do Immediately After a Fire Strikes Your Home
Below are nine crucial guidelines to follow when dealing with the aftermath of a fire, filing your fire insurance claim, and beyond.
1. Wait for the “All Clear” Before Entering
After the fire department extinguishes the flames, the first responders will give you the “all clear” to re-enter your property. Even if things seem calm, your property may not be structurally sound. Fire can weaken the integrity of a building, so always proceed with extreme caution. Listen closely to first responders, as they know what to look for regarding safety hazards.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away
As soon as you're able, reach out to your insurance provider. Most homeowners insurance fire policies include coverage for fire and smoke damage, but every policy has specific stipulations.
Be sure to be present during any inspections and document every interaction with the insurance company. Keep notes, save all emails and documents, and be prepared to advocate for yourself. Documentation is key to avoiding the “he said, she said” game insurance companies like to play.
3. Use Caution When Re-entering Damaged Property
Even though the fire has been put out, your home may still pose dangers, such as weakened floors, damaged electrical systems, or toxic fumes. Wear protective clothing, including gloves and masks, when going inside. Homeowners insurance does not typically cover injuries that occur during cleanup, so always prioritize safety.
Understanding Your Fire Insurance Coverage
It's essential to review your homeowners insurance policy and understand its limitations. Always work with an insurance professional to ensure you're fully covered, plus a property insurance claims attorney if you’re having trouble getting the compensation you deserve.
Learn the 5 Reasons Fire Insurance Claims are Denied >>
4. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
Be aware of your rights when giving any statements to your insurance company about the fire or loss. Keep a copy of the fire report and be mindful of potential investigations into the cause of the fire. Insurance companies may look for reasons to challenge the claim, especially regarding the source of the fire, the extent of the damage, or the items lost. Questioning the cause could save the insurer money, which is why being prepared with accurate documentation is crucial.
5. Don’t Discard Anything Without Documentation
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after a fire is rushing to clean up. You may feel compelled to discard damaged items but don't do so without consulting your insurance company.
Every item, no matter how ruined it appears, must be documented and reviewed by the insurance adjuster. Take plenty of photos and videos before discarding anything. This can save you from disputes later if the insurer questions your claim.
6. Catalog All Damaged Belongings
Take inventory of everything damaged or destroyed in the fire. Even if a company is hired to clean or repair your belongings, you need a thorough record of every item.
A public insurance adjuster or attorney can help with this process, but much of the responsibility will fall on you. Taking photos and keeping a detailed list will ensure that nothing is overlooked, especially when it comes to expensive or sentimental items. Don’t rely on the insurance company’s adjuster, even if they’re taking photos.
Working with Professionals After a Fire
There are several service professionals you’ll work with after the fire to get your compensation, clean up, and rebuild. Here are some tips while working with them.
7. Ask Cleaning Companies the Right Questions
If your insurance provider offers to send a company to clean your belongings, ask about their policies. What happens if an item isn’t cleaned to your satisfaction? Will it be replaced?
Understanding the cleaning standards can prevent disputes later on. If possible, do your own research and find professionals who specialize in post-fire cleanup. Not all cleaning services have experience with fire-damaged items.
8. Be Cautious When Sorting Through Debris
Sorting through the rubble can be dangerous and emotionally overwhelming. Take your time, and make sure you're documenting everything, especially items with serial or model numbers. Not only does this help with your insurance claim, but it can also protect you from injury. Fires can leave behind sharp objects, weakened structures, and lingering toxins.
9. Don’t Rush the Inventory Process
You might be eager to complete the inventory process to move forward but take your time. Many insurance companies will pressure you into submitting an initial inventory list, promising that you can add more items later. Unfortunately, it’s common for insurers to dispute supplemental lists, arguing that high-value items would have been included on the first submission.
Insurance companies routinely fail to pay the supplemental lists, so be thorough from the beginning to avoid issues.
Read 8 Reasons to Never Accept an Insurance Company’s First Offer >>
Need Help With a Fire Insurance Claim? Let’s Talk.
What’s listed above are just nine simple guidelines; you may need more guidance when dealing with a fire or smoke loss. It’s important to consult an experienced property insurance lawyer early in the claims process to determine whether the right steps are being followed.
Don’t let the shock of the loss or the bullying techniques of an insurance company stop you from getting your life back. Get in touch with our team to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
