When your home is damaged by a fire, the severity of the damage can leave you without a home. During this time, you may have to stay with family or friends or live in a motel, while you wait for the insurance company to pay you the compensation you need to repair your home. The insurance company may try to fight you every step of the way, leaving you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. During this devastating time, a fire damage claim attorney at the Moore Law Firm can help.
If you have not yet filed a claim, your claim was denied, or the insurance company is refusing to offer fair compensation, an experienced fire damage claim attorney can build a strong case and help you recover the compensation you need to repair your home.
What to Do After a Fire Causes Property Damage
Below are the steps you must take to protect your claim and your right to compensation after your home has been damaged by a fire.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Before you file a claim, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to identify the coverage limits, exclusions, and requirements for filing a fire damage claim.
Document Any Fire Damage
It’s important to document the fire damage to your property.
Make sure you:
- Take photographs and videos of the damaged areas
- Take photos of any structural damage and damage to personal belongings
Notify Your Insurance Company as Soon as Possible
Notify your insurance company about the fire damage as soon as possible. Follow the company’s standard procedure for filing a claim, and include a detailed description of the damage, as well as photos and videos.
Obtain Repair Estimates
Policyholders must contact multiple contractors to have the fire damage assessed. Having the damage assessed by several contractors ensures an accurate evaluation of the damage.
Do Not Accept Any Settlement Offers
The insurance company will send out a claims adjuster to document and assess the damage. During their visit, do not sign any documents or accept any settlements, without first speaking to a fire damage claim attorney.
What Are Common Causes of Fire Damage?
Common causes of fire damage to the home can include:
- Electrical malfunctions
- Cooking accidents
- Heating equipment
- Smoking materials
- Candles
- Appliance malfunctions
- Flammable liquids
- Outdoor grills
- Children playing with fire
- Lightning strikes
- Arson
- Faulty gas lines
- Wildfires
- Faulty chimneys
What Are the Different Types of Fire Damage?
Common types of fire damage can include:
- Structural damage
- Smoke damage
- Water damage
- Heat damage
- Contents damage
- Electrical damage
- Appliance and system damage
- Roof damage
- Window damage
- Door damage
- Landscaping and exterior damage
- Mold and mildew growth
- Odor damage
How Can a Fire Damage Claim Attorney Help?
If your claim was denied or the insurance company is refusing to pay out the compensation you deserve, a fire damage claim attorney at the Moore Law Firm can help. Our legal team will handle every aspect of your claim and will build a strong case that will prove your demand for damages.
Fight for a Fair Settlement
Our fire damage claim lawyers have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies. We will handle all interactions with the claims adjuster, including fighting for your right to fair compensation. If the insurance company unfairly denies your claim or refuses to offer the compensation you’re owed, we will prepare your case for court. As we prepare to present your case before a judge and jury, we will continue to negotiate with the insurance company. In most cases, the insurance company will be more willing to negotiate once a lawsuit has been filed.
Contact Us Today
If your property sustained fire damage and the insurance company is denying your claim or offering a settlement that will not cover the cost of repairs, contact a fire damage claim attorney at the Moore Law Firm. At our firm, we offer free consultations where you can discuss your case and have all of your questions answered. If you decide to work with us, an experienced attorney on our legal team can review your case, negotiate with the insurance company, and help you recover the compensation you need to make repairs to your property. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation to learn more.
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