Filing a Fire Damage Insurance Claim
If you have been the victim of a home fire, such as the devastation that occurred recently after the Marshall Fire in Boulder county, filing an insurance claim may be the last thing on your mind. However, once you and your loved ones have reached a safe location, it is imperative that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible. The sooner you do this, the sooner you can receive much-needed settlement money and begin the recovery process.
Contacting Your Insurance Company
For starters, you will want to contact your homeowners insurance carrier. This is the particular type of insurance under which fire damage is covered.
The contact method for your personal provider will vary, but most companies offer phone and virtual options. Some companies, for example, will have a smartphone app where you can submit a claim electronically or via email, while some may require you to call them directly. Your insurance company’s website is a great place to start for finding contact information.
Homeowners Insurance Companies in Colorado
The following are some of the more common homeowners insurance providers in Colorado. Most offer a way to file and monitor your claim online. In most cases, you will need to register or create an account to use this service. Have your policy number handy whether you are calling directly or filing a virtual claim.
USAA
Phone number: 800-531-8722
File an online claim with USAA here.
Speak to a virtual agent here.
AllState
Phone number: 800-669-2214
File an online claim with AllState here.
To get AllState’s app, text ALLSTATEAPP to 25788
Liberty Mutual
Phone number: 800-290-8711
File an online claim with Liberty Mutual here.
State Farm
Phone number: 800-732-5246
File an online claim with State Farm here.
Travelers Insurance
Phone number: 800-252-4633
File an online claim with Travelers here.
American Family
Phone number: 1-800-692-6326
File an online claim with American Family Insurance here.
Download the American Family Insurance app here.
ChubbÂ
Phone number: 1-800-252-4670
File an online claim with Chubb here.
MetLife
Phone number: 1-800-854-6011
Main website: https://www.metlife.com/
Next Steps
Once you have contacted your insurance company and made the initial claim, you will be assigned an insurance adjuster. This is an individual who will be responsible for processing your details and guiding you through the claims process. Specifically, your adjuster will:
- Discuss the details of your policy with you and determine what is covered under your plan
- Request and evaluate documentation of the loss
- Authorize advance funds for food, housing, etc.
- Make repairs estimates
- Make recommendations for contractors, medical providers, and temporary housing
- Communicate with contractors and other third parties, such as attorneys
- Negotiate a final settlement amount
- Authorize payment of contractors and settlement amounts
What to Expect
The exact coverage amount will depend on your specific insurance and the type of damage that has occurred. Your insurance adjuster should be willing and able to answer all of your questions regarding the claims process. They will keep you updated on the status of your claim and inform you of any missing documentation needed to reach a settlement. In many cases, you will also be able to track the status of your claim through an app or online portal (see above).
What Happens if My Claim is Taking Too Long?
Unfortunately, there are instances when the claims process becomes overly confusing or drawn out. This is largely due to poor communication or oversights on the part of the insurance carrier. If you are experiencing difficulties contacting your insurance company, or you feel your claim is being mishandled in any way, an experienced insurance attorney can help. Contact The Roth Group law office or go online to schedule your free consultation.