How to Clear Debris After a Fire

soot and charred debris following a house fire

One of the tasks that falls on property owners after a fire is the clearing of debris from the site. This is part of the process of returning the home to its pre-loss condition for insurance purposes. You will want to be sure you go about clearing debris in the right way to avoid any hiccups in the claims process.  Who Pays to Clear Debris from a Home Fire? This expense is covered under your homeowners insurance. The exact amount available to pay for clearing debris will depend on your specific policy. You will either need to use part of your Coverage...

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What Does a Homeowners Fire Policy Cover?

insurance policy forms on laptop with coffee

     Whether you are recovering from a recent fire or looking to insure your next home, it is imperative to understand the details of a homeowners insurance fire policy. Knowing what is and is not covered can help you prepare and decide what additional coverage you may need to purchase.       Being familiar with your policy will also help you file the most accurate claim possible, and will serve you well in the event that you need to appeal a decision. What is Covered for Fire Damage?   Standard homeowners fire policies typically cover three areas      1. Dwelling      Smoke...

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What Should You Do If Your Fire Claim Was Denied?

insurance form with red stamped letters saying "rejected"

The insurance claims process can be complicated and frustrating. Fire claims are especially daunting, since you are dealing with a significant emotional toll while trying to objectively document physical losses. When dealing with such a situation, the last thing you need is to have your claim denied. While there are certain instances when a fire claim can be legitimately denied, there are plenty of times when a claim was mishandled or unfairly rejected. If you feel your claim denial was unjustified, there are several steps you can take.  Read the Denial Letter The first thing you will want to do is review the formal...

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What is Proof of Loss in a Fire Damage Claim?

paper house on fire exchange for paper money

If you have recently submitted a fire damage claim to your insurance company, your adjuster will likely require you to fill out a Proof of Loss form. This is a legal document that specifies the amount of monetary damage to property and belongings. When Should You Submit Proof of Loss? Your insurance adjuster will provide a deadline for the form. This date is important. If you miss your deadline, it can cause delays in your settlement or even be reason enough to deny the claim all together. Generally, you will have 60 days to submit your Proof of Loss Form, but this can...

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