Fire Loss

Our hearts go out to you and your family impacted by the devastating Oklahoma fires. We understand this is an overwhelming time, and getting fair compensation for your losses should not add to your stress. When you are ready to file an insurance claim, we are here to help ensure that you receive the full recovery that you deserve. There is no need to face the aftermath of the fire alone; let us guide you through the process and advocate for your rights as a policyholder. We’ve created the guidelines and resources below to help you navigate this difficult time.

TIPS TO HANDLE YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM

• DO NOT sign a contract with a roofer, mitigating company, or other contractor until after your claim is assessed and there is an agreed “scope of work.” If you have already hired a contractor to handle your claim, have the contractor be transparent with the repair project, including all insurance payments received.

• Many times, your insurance agent or assigned adjuster will encourage you to hire a mitigation company even when it may not be necessary. The fees paid to the mitigation company will reduce your policy limits and may cost you out-of-pocket expenses beyond your insurance policy limits. Your insurance company will pay the mitigation/restoration bill first, which may prevent you from affording the completion of your related and needed repairs. 

• Roofing companies will often offer their services to handle your insurance claim even though it is beyond their expertise or legally able to. 

• Understand the Claims Process. 

Navigating the claims process after a house fire can be daunting. The first step usually involves notifying your insurance company about the incident. This initiates the filing procedure, which includes detailed documentation and evidence of damage. It also triggers deadlines that you are responsible for following whether you are aware of them or not. It is important to remember that:

• Incomplete understanding of the terms of your insurance policy can lead to denied claims.

• Waiting for the adjuster that your insurance company assigned to your claim to assess the damage can prolong the process. 

• The adjuster your insurance company assigned to your claim may undervalue repair costs. This occurs for many reasons, including the adjuster not being adequately trained, over-assigned claims, or not familiar with your policy.  

• Documentation is Key. 

Thorough documentation is essential when filing a property insurance claim. Ensuring you have a comprehensive record of all damages helps support your claim and provides the necessary “proof of loss.” A well-documented claim is your best defense against delays and disputes with your insurance company. 

Tips on Effective Documentation

• Take Clear Photographs: Capture multiple angles of each damaged area or item. Include close-ups to highlight specific damage, as well as wide shots to show the context within your home. Take pictures from far out to close in.

• Maintain Detailed Records: Keep meticulous notes on the condition and value of each damaged item. Date-stamped photographs can also be beneficial.

• Create an Inventory List: List all items lost or damaged in the fire, including their original purchase date, estimated value, and any relevant receipts.

• Mitigating Further Damage After a Fire Incident.

Taking immediate steps to prevent further damage is crucial after a house fire. It is also a requirement stated in your insurance policy. Review your insurance policy and follow these guidelines to secure your premises and make temporary repairs effectively.

GUIDELINES TO SECURE YOUR PREMISES:

• Immediately file your claim and request a copy of your insurance policy. Submit your claim within the first few days following the fire to start the evaluation process quickly to avoid potential issues. Immediate submission helps prevent complications that may arise from delayed filings, such as loss of evidence or prolonged displacement. Check your insurance policy for specific deadlines. 

• Secure the premises. Ensure doors, windows, and any openings are closed or covered to prevent unauthorized access. Using tarps or plywood can help keep out weather elements and deter vandals.

• Make necessary temporary repairs. Address urgent issues like broken windows, leaking roofs, or exposed wiring to avoid additional harm. Use materials like boards, tarps, and plastic sheeting for quick fixes.

• Document, document, document. Keep a detailed record of all correspondence and communications from anything related to the fire loss. 

  • Record all measures you take to mitigate damage. This includes photographs of the damaged areas before and after repairs, as well as receipts for any materials purchased. 

  • Track your expenses. Maintain a detailed record of all expenses incurred while displaced. Keeping receipts and itemizing all costs will help substantiate your claim and ensure you are reimbursed accurately. Keep detailed records of all expenses, including:

    • Temporary housing costs

    • Food and transportation expenses

    • Any emergency purchases

  • Keep track of the time between when the adjuster called/responded to you 

• Beware of Contractor Fraud in Fire Recovery Cases.

Avoid roofers and other contractors who insist on handling your claim. They are experts in their own field, not how to navigate your claim or fully understand the legal complications they may miss or create themselves. Plus, it is illegal for them to advocate for you without a legal license or a specific license to adjust your claim. 

• Risks associated with hiring contractors or vendors post-fire recovery.

• Exploitation of Vulnerability: Dishonest contractors may take advantage of homeowners’ desperation.

• Substandard Work: Some may deliver poor-quality repairs that don’t meet safety standards.

• Financial Loss: Upfront payments may disappear without the promised work being completed.

• Consider Hiring a Professional When Needed During the Process. 

Engaging in an advocate can be highly beneficial during the claim process. Several advantages include: 

• Reviewing your insurance policy to ensure you understand your coverage.

• Accurately documenting all damages and losses.

• Negotiating with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement.

• Attorney versus Public Adjuster. 

Public Adjusters and Attorneys can both help with insurance claims; however, there are differences. 

• Public Adjuster. Public Adjusters legally licensed in the State of Oklahoma can help at the initial stages of a claim by ensuring that the full extent of property damage is identified and properly valued. Much like the adjuster your insurance company would assign to your claim, but the public adjuster only has your interest in mind, not any insurance company’s interest.

Public adjusters can help at the initial states of a claim by ensuring that the full extent of property damage is identified and properly valued. However, they may be limited to advising a policyholder when to reject the claim if the offer is unfair.

• Attorney. Attorneys can provide the same services as a public adjuster, with the added bonus that they can legally negotiate with and file a lawsuit against the insurer. When insurance companies issue a partial or total claim denial that does not seem fair or legal, an attorney can continue with your claim, as a Public Adjuster would have to refer your claim to an attorney. 

Not all attorneys will handle your insurance claim prior to litigation. However, Bolitho Law, PLLC, advocates for its clients from the moment of the loss through resolution of their claim. Not all claims result in a lawsuit. In fact, it is rare that they do. But, your insurance company will take your claim seriously if you file your claim with an attorney. 

Hire Bolitho Law, PLLC, to help you with your insurance claim. If no insurance recovery, then no fee. Call us today for a complimentary evaluation of your fire loss and insurance claim.