3 Steps for Filing a Fire Claim

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a hotel

Steps To File Your Commercial Fire Claim

A fire at your business may seriously impact your ability to conduct business or halt it altogether. To get your business running at full capacity, it is important to take these three steps to file your commercial fire claim.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company
One of the first things you should do after a fire is to contact your insurance company to report your fire damage. Most insurance companies provide customers with multiple ways to begin this process. You may be able to file your claim by calling your insurance agent in Hanover Township, OH, or the claims department of your insurance company. Your insurer may provide a website or mobile app that will allow you to begin the claims process online. Be prepared to provide your policy number, address and a description of what happened and what was damaged.

2. Document Your Losses
When you file a fire claim, your insurance company will probably send someone to inspect your damages. However, it is useful to provide your own documentation, such as photos of the damaged property, receipts or other documentation that proves the value of your damaged property, recent maintenance records and proof of income. If you need to make temporary repairs, photograph the damage before you repair it and retain your receipts for supplies and labor used to make the repairs. Hold off on permanent repairs and fire restoration services until your insurance company gives you the go-ahead to proceed.

3. Keep Everything Organized
Write down your claim number and the names of anyone you talk to at the insurance company. Keep your photographs, damage estimates, receipts and other documentation in an easily accessible place.
Nobody wants to have a fire, but if a fire does occur, properly filing your fire claim can help you restore your business as quickly as possible. These three steps will help you with this process.