Working with Insurance after a Claim
Handling an insurance claim after a fire can be a complex process, but with the right approach, you can navigate it effectively. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Contact Your Insurance Company:
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the fire. Your policy documents should include a contact number for claims reporting.
2. Review Your Policy:
- Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy to understand your coverage, limits, deductibles, and any specific provisions related to fire damage.
3. Document the Damage:
- Take photographs and videos of the fire damage and any affected items. This visual documentation is crucial for your claim.
4. Make a Detailed Inventory:
- Create an itemized inventory of all damaged or lost items. Include their descriptions, estimated value, purchase price, and the date of purchase if available.
5. Secure the Property:
- If the property is not safe to enter, secure it by boarding up windows and doors to prevent unauthorized access and further damage.
6. Request Advance Payments:
- Depending on your policy and the extent of the damage, you may be able to request advance payments from your insurance company to cover immediate living expenses, such as temporary housing.
7. Work with Your Insurance Adjuster:
- Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage. Provide them with all necessary documentation and cooperate fully during their inspection.
8. Mitigate Further Damage:
- Take steps to prevent further damage to your property. This might include covering the roof if it's damaged, blocking off damaged areas, or preventing further water damage if it's caused by firefighting efforts.
9. Understand the Claims Process:
- Familiarize yourself with the claims process, including how payments are made, what's covered, and any policy-specific procedures for fire damage claims.
10. Keep Records: - Maintain detailed records of all interactions with your insurance company, including names, dates, and topics discussed. This documentation can be crucial if disputes arise.
11. Be Patient and Persistent: - The claims process can sometimes be slow or involve requests for additional documentation. Be patient, but also persistent in following up and providing requested information promptly.
12. Seek Professional Help if Necessary: - If you encounter challenges or disputes in your insurance claim, consider consulting with a public adjuster or attorney who specializes in insurance claims. They can provide expert guidance and negotiate on your behalf.
13. Review Your Claim Settlement: - Carefully review the claim settlement offered by your insurance company. Ensure that it covers the full extent of your losses and damages.
14. Sign a Release: - Before you receive any insurance payment, your insurance company may require you to sign a release form, which finalizes the settlement. Ensure you are satisfied with the terms before signing.
15. File a Complaint if Needed: - If you believe your insurance company is acting unfairly or unreasonably, you can file a complaint with your state's insurance department. They can investigate your case and advocate on your behalf.
Remember that handling an insurance claim after a fire requires patience and thorough documentation. It's essential to be prepared, persistent, and, if necessary, seek professional assistance to ensure you receive the coverage you're entitled to for your fire damage.
As a reputable and IICRC Certified Water Damage Restoration contractor, MacPro Restore is here to help. We can help you determine if the damage warrants professional dry out and or an Insurance claim. We are just a phone call away.
Call 515-257-6010 to get help now in the Des Moines area.
MacPro Restore Offers 24 hour Emergency Service for the following services and areas
Water Damage, Fire Damage, Mold Damage
Areas Served
Polk County
Alleman, Iowa
Altoona, Iowa
Ankeny, Iowa
Bondurant, Iowa
Carlisle, Iowa
Clive, Iowa
Des Moines, Iowa
Elkhart, Iowa
Granger, Iowa
Grimes, Iowa
Johnston, Iowa
Mitchellville, Iowa
Norwalk, Iowa
Pleasant Hill, Iowa
Polk City, Iowa
Runnells, Iowa
Sheldahl, Iowa
Urbandale, Iowa
West Des Moines
Windsor Heights
Dallas County
Adel, Iowa
Booneville, Iowa
Bouton, Iowa
Dallas Center
Dawson, Iowa
De Soto, Iowa
Dexter, Iowa
Granger, Iowa
Linden, Iowa
Minburn, Iowa
Perry, Iowa
Redfield, Iowa
Van Meter, Iowa
Waukee, Iowa
Woodward, Iowa
Medora, Iowa
Milo, Iowa
New Virginia, Iowa
Newbern, Iowa
Norwalk, Iowa
Warren County
Ackworth, Iowa
Avon, Iowa
Avon Lake, Iowa
Carlisle, Iowa
Churchville, Iowa
Cool, Iowa
Cumming, Iowa
Hartford, Iowa
Indianola, Iowa
Jamison, Iowa
Lacona, Iowa
Lakewood, Iowa
Liberty, Iowa
Liberty Center, Iowa
Martensdale, Iowa
Orillia, Iowa
Palmyra, Iowa
Prole, Iowa
Saint Marys, Iowa
Sandyville, Iowa
Other Cities
Ames, Iowa
Baxter, Iowa
Boone, Iowa
Colo, Iowa
Huxley, Iowa
Legrand, Iowa
Marshalltown, Iowa
Nevada, Iowa
Newton, Iowa
State Center, Iowa
Story City, Iowa
Prairie City, Iowa
Monroe, Iowa
Mingo, Iowa
Colfax, Iowa
Reasnor, Iowa
Knoxville, Iowa
Scotch Ridge, Iowa
Spring Hill, Iowa
Summerset, Iowa




