Fire Damage Claim FAQs
How long do I have to report the claim?
In Florida, a new or reopened fire damage claim has to be reported to your insurer within 1 year of the date of loss. A supplemental claim, for added damage from the same event, has to be reported within 18 months (Fla. Stat. 627.70132). Your policy may also ask for prompt notice, so don't wait. Call us at 954-466-5730 and we'll help you get it reported.
What should I do right after a fire?
Make sure everyone's safe and the fire department has cleared the home. Then document everything: rooms, smoke stains, damaged belongings, even things that smell like smoke. Don't throw out damaged items until they've been photographed and listed. Ask your insurer about living expenses if you can't stay in the house.
How long does the insurance company have to respond?
Once you report the fire damage claim, Florida law gives the insurer 7 calendar days to acknowledge it. After it gets your proof of loss, it has 7 days to start investigating, and if it inspects in person, that should happen within 30 days of the proof of loss. It then has 60 days from notice of the claim to pay or deny it, in whole or in part, with a written explanation tied to your policy (Fla. Stat. 627.70131). Late payments can carry interest.
Is smoke and soot damage part of a fire claim?
It often is, and it's easy to miss. Smoke and soot travel into walls, ducts, insulation and contents far from the flames. We look for that hidden damage so it's in the estimate from the start, though what's covered always depends on your policy.
Can I ask for state mediation if we can't agree?
Yes. Florida's Department of Financial Services runs a mediation program for residential property claims (Fla. Stat. 627.7015). Your claim becomes eligible once the insurer has paid or denied it, in full or in part. The insurer pays the mediation cost, it's nonbinding, and if you sign a settlement you get 3 business days to change your mind, as long as you haven't cashed the check. Disputes under $500 usually don't qualify.
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Base Claims is a licensed public adjusting firm in Hallandale Beach, and we take claims across Florida.
Base Claims Public Adjusters, 2400 NE 9th St, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009. Benji Licht, Licensed Public Adjuster, FL Lic. #W523574. Yossi Garber, Licensed Public Adjuster, FL Lic. #G173942.