3 Steps To Filing a Fire Claim

10/23/2018 (Permalink)

Large fire loss in a Bainbridge,OH home

There are several steps an homeowner should follow after a fire at a residential property in Bainbridge, OH. Document proof of damage, take measures toward mitigation, and pursue fire restoration as soon as possible.

Here are three key steps toward filing a fire insurance claim

1. Contact the Insurer

Notify your home insurance provider that a fire has caused damage. You may be able to request an advance to offset preliminary mitigation expenses. Inform the insurer that you will submit documentation of damage and losses to support the claim and pursue professional fire restoration and smoke cleaning.

2. Document the Damage

Make a list of contents and note the current status of every item, including those that have sustained damage or been destroyed. You should also gather as many receipts as possible. Ideally, you will provide a detailed inventory of contents with recent pictures or video footage of the property prior to the fire. Supplement these materials with photographs or videos of property damage after the fire. Avoid touching damage and put down towels or sheets to limit the amount of soot that gets ground into flooring.

3. Demonstrate Damage Mitigation

An insurance company is more likely to pay out on your claims if you take measures toward mitigation. Board up broken windows and use tarp to cover any holes in the roof. This can limit the extent of secondary damage caused by external debris or additional water damage. A mitigation and restoration company may provide these services.

Take action as soon as a fire has been extinguished to limit the amount of damage and increase the likelihood that insurance will cover your claim. You can start the process of filing a claim on your own or retain the services of a fire restoration and smoke cleaning service for documenting and mitigating damage to a residence located in Bainbridge, OH.