How To Respond to a Partial Loss

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire loss in Claxton, TN.

How To Respond to a Partial Loss

You'll have a lot of questions and concerns after your building has been affected by fire loss. When fire damages, but doesn't destroy your building, the situation is a bit more confusing. The insurance claim may be referred to as a "partial loss" because only part of your property has been destroyed. However, partial losses still pose significant concerns:

• Water, mold, and smoke damage
  
• Lingering ash in hidden areas, such as ducts
  
• The temptation to rush cleanup and repair efforts
  
• Extended delays while waiting for insurance adjusters and other Claxton, TN, professionals
  
• Questions about how far repairs should go (such as replacing undamaged items)
  
  

Even if you can't find obvious damage, it's important to contact fire restoration professionals to identify and assess the extent of fire trouble.

Improve Your Experience With the Insurance Company
Whenever you experience property or fire loss, there are basic steps that can help you simplify the recovery process with your insurance company:

• Carefully and completely document all damage and destruction.
  
• File your claim promptly.
  
• Consider hiring a public adjuster who works for you, not the insurance company.
  
• Become familiar with the terms used by the insurance company.
  
• Expect and seek a full, fair payment.
  
• Prevent unnecessary traffic through the damaged part of your property.
  
  

It is always best to have a professional with experience and the right qualifications perform inspections to protect against injuries and hidden damage.

Insist on a Professional Inspection
The inspection should include all aspects of your building, including the roof, siding, windows, interior and exterior walls, and the plumbing and heating systems. The inspection should also include a close look at structural elements, such as concrete, steel, iron, wooden framing, bricks, and stucco.

Expect Consistent and Uniform Repair Results
The damage from fire loss isn't always recognized right away without a professional inspection. Be polite, but assertive when insisting on repairs, so the result is uniform across the undamaged part of your building and the newly repaired parts.