Tips for Making a Fire Damage Claim

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Building Fire

When your Washington County, Tennessee, commercial property has experienced fire damage, the claim process can be frustrating, at the very least. There are a few factors that make this difficult:

• Determining the scope of the loss
• Creating a complete inventory of items that were damaged
• Figuring out what's covered by the insurance company
• Handling your emotions over the fire and resulting damage
  

There's some good news, however; you don't have to work through this process alone.  Call SERVPRO of Washington County and there many professionals who can help you successfully complete the claims and reconstruction process. 

Tips for Making a Successful Claim
Before you get into the claim filing process, there are a few points to keep in mind:

Photographic evidence that includes both before and after pictures is vital. Any records or receipts you have from purchasing business equipment and furnishings are also helpful. Your insurance adjuster can help you through the process of gather documentation.
Don't try to clean or repair electronics and other equipment. Make sure you record water and fire damage to these items. Then, talk to your insurance company about how to proceed. Some insurance companies prefer that you contact specific cleanup and restoration companies to handle all of the repairs.
Ask your agent whether the insurance company plans to hire a forensic accountant. This professional may ask for some financial statements. It's okay to ask why those statements are necessary, and it's also okay for you to hire a professional from an accounting firm you trust.

Fire Mitigation Advice
Talk to multiple professionals to learn more about fire mitigation. As you work through your inventory of damaged items and all the requirements necessary to complete a satisfactory claim, keep a notebook on hand to jot down suggestions and information about avoiding fire damage in the future. Representatives from the fire department may have great advice. Your insurance company, the professionals who handle repairs, and the adjuster may all have suggestions for avoiding future fires.