The aftermath of a house fire can be overwhelming. The daunting task of picking up what’s left of your home can fill you with distress. A crucial step in recovery can be understanding your insurance coverage. Home insurance covers the costs of repairing damage to the property or replacing lost belongings due to things like fire.

Learning your coverage

Most homeowner insurance policies in Florida include dwelling coverage, which protects the structure of your home. However, the specifics of your coverage will depend on your individual policy. Here’s what you can do:

• Review your policy: Look for sections detailing dwelling and personal property coverage and their respective limits.
• Contact your agent: They can clarify your coverage details and guide you through the claims process.
• Check eligibility before filing a claim: If the fire originated from a covered peril, you should be eligible to file a claim. Common covered perils include fire, lightning and explosions. However, there might be exclusions for intentional fires or wear and tear damages.

Before trying to collect any belongings and returning home, take caution and remember the following:

• Observe safety first: Ensure everyone is safe and out of harm’s way. Don’t re-enter the building unless firefighters declare it safe.
• Document the damage: Take photos and videos of the fire damage to your house and belongings once it’s safe. Keep a detailed list of damaged items.
• File your claim promptly: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within a few days of the fire. They will guide you through the claims process, which might involve an adjuster visiting your property to assess the damage.
• Gather necessary documents: Collect documents like police reports, fire department reports, and receipts for any recent home improvements. This helps prove the value of your property and belongings.

Understandably, emotions may still run high after a fire, but getting your affairs in order as soon as possible is crucial to starting the claims process and receiving compensation.

What if my claim gets denied?

You have the right to appeal the decision. Review the denial letter and understand the reasoning behind it. You can often submit additional documentation or clarifications to support your claim. A legal professional experienced in homeowners insurance disputes can assess your situation and advise you on the proper course of action. Florida law requires insurance companies to act in good faith when handling claims. If you feel you’ve been treated unfairly, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel.