What to Do Right After a Fire Loss?

Dealing with a fire at your home or business is a traumatic experience but knowing what steps to take immediately after can make the process smoother. Here’s a simple guide on what to do right after a fire loss:

1. Ensure Safety First

   If you haven’t already, make sure everyone is safe. Don’t re-enter the building until you are given the go-ahead.

   
   

2. Call the Fire Department

   If the fire isn’t already under control, call 911 immediately. 

   
   

3. Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster

   A public adjuster like ClearClaim works on your behalf to handle the insurance claim. They help ensure that your claim is properly documented and that you receive fair compensation for all your losses. Hiring a public adjuster early significantly increases your chance of the process going smoothly and faster for you and your family. 

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

   Notify your insurance company about the fire as soon as possible - Be ready to provide basic details, such as when the fire occurred and the extent of the damage. If you do not know some details, it’s ok to take and breath and say “I don’t know”.  It is easy to want to be helpful and speculate but this could prove problematic if this speculation ends up hurting your claim later. 

   
   

5. Secure Temporary Living Arrangements (If Necessary)

   If your home or business is not fit to be in, arrange for a hotel or a temporary space to stay. Many insurance policies cover additional living expenses, so keep every receipts for food, hotel, and travel (gas) etc. If you are unsure whether something is covered, keep the receipt and bring it up later. 

   
   

6. Document the Damage

   This is a goliath of a task and not to be underestimated. Be prepared to put in a lot of time on this step. Take photos and videos of everything damaged by the fire, including your home or business, furniture, and belongings. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim. If you have a public adjuster, they will help with this step and alleviate a lot of the stress associated with this work. 

   
   

7. Don’t Throw Anything Away

   Don’t discard any damaged items yet. Insurance companies may require these items to be documented or inspected as part of your claim. It is best to make sure you have the OK to throw anything away in writing before you do. 

   
   

8. Make Necessary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage

   You may need to make temporary repairs to prevent more damage. Keep receipts for any repairs you make, as these costs may be reimbursed by your insurance. The underlying concept here is to do what is reasonable – do not put yourself in danger to be helpful to the insurance company. Do what you can reasonably do.  

Dealing with a fire is never easy, but taking these steps can help you recover more quickly and get the support you need. Reach out to us to help manage the insurance process and make sure your life is restored properly and quickly.