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Even the smallest spark can spiral into an out-of-control fire, causing damage that leaves your home unsafe and unlivable. Restoration can be expensive, time-consuming, and may leave you living outside your home for months. While you might expect your insurance company to support you with your fire damage claim, that isn’t always the case.

An insurance company may drag out the claims process or deny your claim unfairly. However, the Texas fire damage attorneys at Brasher Law can fight aggressively to help you recover a fair settlement.

Common Consequences of Fire Damage

Fires can spread through structures in seconds. The flames, intense heat, and smoke can damage your home’s structural integrity or completely destroy your personal property.

They often lead to the following types of property damage:

  • Compromised roof structures from heat or burning embers
  • Foundational issues due to heat transfer through steel and iron structures
  • Dehydration of stucco, leading to cracks and spalling
  • Siding that has melted or become damaged due to heat exposure
  • Concrete foundation damage
  • Melted, discolored, or blistered window frames
  • Warped and discolored glass that can cause moisture issues
  • Damage to plumbing and heating systems
  • Damage to framing or the development of mold within walls
  • Chemical residue from smoke and soot

Does Home Insurance Cover Fire Damage?

Yes. Fire damage is the third most common reason for filing a home insurance claim, and approximately one in every 430 insured homeowners files a fire damage claim each year.

The following coverage types are often included in a homeowners’ insurance policy and may cover expenses related to a fire damage claim:

  • Dwelling coverage: Covers repair or reconstruction costs for your home, such as restoring damaged rooms or rebuilding entirely.
  • Personal property coverage: Covers damaged or destroyed personal belongings inside your home, such as electronics, appliances, furniture, and other valuables.
  • Loss of use coverage: Covers your living expenses if you must move out of your home during restoration or reconstruction.
  • Other structures coverage: Covers detached structures affected by the fire, such as a garage or shed.

How to File a Homeowners’ Insurance Claim for Fire Damage

Every home insurance company’s process is slightly different. However, in general, you should take the following steps to start your fire damage claim properly.

  1. Document the damage: Take photos or videos of everything that was damaged or destroyed and create an itemized list of your losses. Be sure to note any high-value items with additional coverage, such as jewelry, artwork, or antiques.
  2. Contact your insurance company or agent: Use your insurer’s online portal or contact your agent directly for instructions on filing your claim.
  3. Protect your home: Take temporary measures to prevent further damage, such as placing tarps over exposed areas. Avoid making permanent repairs, as this may complicate your claim.
  4. Keep your receipts: If you cannot stay in your home, keep records of all additional living expenses, such as hotel stays, food, or pet boarding.
  5. Schedule an adjuster inspection: After filing your claim, an adjuster will review your documentation and may schedule an in-person inspection.

How long does an insurance claim take for a house fire?

Waiting to hear back from your insurance company can feel stressful, but they cannot delay indefinitely. In Texas, an insurance company must acknowledge your claim within 15 days of filing. They may extend this deadline by up to 45 days with a valid explanation.

If your insurance company does not meet these deadlines or fails to provide a clear timeline, call our firm for a free case evaluation.

How Much Does Insurance Pay for Fire Damage?

The amount depends on your policy. According to data from the Insurance Information Institute, the average fire damage claim is approximately $88,170.

Depending on your policy, most insurance companies offer three main settlement options:

  • Replacement cost value (RCV): Pays to repair or replace damaged items without depreciation.
  • Actual cash value (ACV): Pays to repair or replace damaged items with depreciation.
  • Agreed value: Pays a predetermined amount for a damaged item, such as appraised artwork or collectibles.

Why Would Insurance Deny a Fire Claim?

You may have faithfully paid your premiums for years and expect your insurance company to provide a fair settlement. However, insurers do not always honor their obligations.

An insurance company’s primary goal is to protect its bottom line. As a result, it may undervalue your property, create unnecessary delays, or even outright deny your claim.

Common reasons for denial include:

  • Under-investigation: An adjuster may fail to properly inspect or evaluate your claim.
  • Insufficient evidence: The insurer may claim you did not provide enough documentation.
  • Accusations of arson: Investigators may allege the fire was intentionally set.
  • Policy violations: Missed payments or lapses in coverage can result in denial.
  • Negligence: The insurer may argue that the fire resulted from poor maintenance or failure to prevent further damage.

Sometimes, an insurance company may not provide a clear reason for denial. However, you do not have to accept the initial decision. An experienced Texas bad faith insurance lawyer can help you pursue a fair settlement.

When to Hire a Property Damage Lawyer for Fire Damage

Not every fire damage claim requires legal assistance. However, if you believe your insurance company is acting in bad faith, Brasher Law can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Fill out your free case evaluation today to learn how we can help with your claim.

 

Brasher Law Firm is licensed in TX, LA, CO, UT, OK, and NV