How To File a Fire Insurance Claim

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fill a fire insurance claim to get repaired your home in White Bear Lake, MN.

With wildfires and other fire risks increasing due to extreme weather events, homeowners need to know how to file a claim when they need fire restoration. The earlier homeowners file a claim, the sooner they can get their damaged property repaired or replaced.

5 Tips for Filing a Fire Insurance Claim

Whether your home has been destroyed or partially damaged, the first step to getting back to normal is to file a fire insurance claim. These tips can help you get started.

1. Request a Partial Payment Upfront

Many people who have been through a house fire have immediate needs that can not wait on the insurance company to finish processing a claim. If you need money for essential items, such as clothes or toiletries, ask your insurance adjuster if the insurance company can issue you a partial payment to cover these items. However, avoid purchasing anything you do not need, because the insurance company may not cover items it deems to be unnecessary. The amount you receive will be deducted from your final settlement.

2. File Your Claim as Soon as Possible and Follow Up

The fire restoration process can not begin without the insurance company doing its part. As soon as your family is safe, call your insurance company to report your claim. If your adjuster requests anything from you, such as an inventory of damaged items, photos, receipts, or estimates, return these items promptly. Keep track of all of your communication with the insurance company. Keep original documents and make a copy for the insurance company. If you don't hear back from your insurance company, call them to find out what the delay is. If the company is not being cooperative, you may want to speak to an attorney about what the laws in White Bear Lake, MN, are regarding how long the insurance company has to settle your claim.

3. Track Your Living Expenses

Most homeowners' policies include coverage for loss of use. This coverage provides reimbursement for expenses incurred while your home is not habitable. However, it only covers the difference in what you would normally spend if you were living in your home, versus what you are spending to live in a hotel or rental. Extra expenses might include meals out, laundry services, and the cost of a hotel room. If you stay with friends or family, your insurance may reimburse them for extra costs incurred to have you in their home.

4. Keep Paying for Your Insurance

Some people think that they no longer need to pay for their insurance because their home has been destroyed. However, homeowners' insurance includes liability protection, so you should keep paying for it until you replace that coverage.

5. Submit Anything You Find After the Claim Is Closed

Insurance companies often print something on checks about the payment being "in full" or final, but this is not legally binding. If you discover additional damage that requires smoke cleaning or other restoration services, you can still submit the damage for reimbursement.

Your home is probably your most important and most valuable asset. It is important to stay on top of your insurance claim to ensure fire restoration is completed as quickly as possible.