What Is the Process for a Fire Claim?

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Tips and Learn More about the Process for a Fire Claim.

Fires can cause devastating damage to your property and completely shut down your business operations. To get your business operating as quickly as possible, it is important to file a fire claim and get an estimate for your damages as soon as you can.

The Commercial Fire Claim Process

There are several steps involved with getting your fire claim processed.

1. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the first things to do, after making sure everyone is safe, is to call your insurance company to report the fire damage. A claims professional will probably ask you some questions about the damage and when, where and how the fire started.

The employee may also provide you with some instructions about what to do and request any needed paperwork or other documentation.

2. Document Your Loss

Take photos or videos of your damaged property. Gather up receipts, tax records or other documentation that proves the value of your damaged or destroyed property. Make a list of everything that is damaged so you can make sure nothing gets left off the claim.

3. Secure Your Property

Unfortunately, fire-damaged buildings can be targets for looters, thieves and vandals. If possible, board up holes in windows and walls to prevent easy entry into your building. If the damage is too extensive, consider putting up a security fence to keep unauthorized people off your property.

4. Make Temporary Repairs

Broken windows or openings in other parts of the building can create an opening for rain and wind to enter, causing further damage to your property. Use tarps or plywood to make temporary repairs. If you have extensive damage, consider contacting a remediation company in Greenville, NC, for tarp and board-up service.

5. Review Your Policy

Review your insurance policy. Pay particular attention to the maximum coverage amount for different items, the deductible and co-insurance and your business interruption insurance.

6. Get an Estimate

If your damage is relatively minor, your insurance company may accept documentation from a local contractor. However, most of the time the company will send out an adjuster to examine your property. Try to be available to show the adjuster around your property.

If you want a second opinion, you can contact a contractor or hire a public adjuster.

7. Clean Up the Property

Once everything has been documented, you may need to clear out damaged contents and debris before the repair process can begin. Check with your insurance to make sure you are covered before you start hiring contractors.

8. Repair Your Property

Your insurance company may recommend contractors who can repair your property; however, you are not obligated to use them. Make sure you show the insurance company's damage appraisal to whoever you hire. If additional damage is found or your contractor can't complete the job for what the insurance company has paid, you must check with the insurance company to make sure any additional charges are covered.

Getting through the fire claim process is more complicated than just getting an estimate for your damages. The sooner you contact your insurance company, the faster you can start making repairs.