3 Tips for Filing a Commercial Fire Insurance Claim

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage at a local business in Melrose District, CA.

Three Points to Consider When Filing a Commercial Fire Insurance Claim

When a fire damages your Melrose District, CA, commercial building, one of the first steps you may want to take is to notify your insurance company to make a fire claim. When you take steps to process your claim as soon as possible, the processing may occur faster, giving you the means to make repairs and reopen your business as soon as possible. 

1. Take Photos 
Once the fire is out and the building is secure, take photo and video evidence of all the damage you find. Include water cleanup needs from burst lines and fire hoses, as standing water can cause mold to form on many surfaces. Ask your insurance representative if any specific photos or videos are necessary. 

2. Secure the Building 
If a fire damaged your building's doors or windows, then securing these areas is important to prevent any further damage and to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the building before fire damage cleaning and other processes begin. Use sturdy planks of wood and thick sections of tarp to protect these areas. You can also hire security to monitor these vulnerable areas during overnight hours. 

3. Stay in Contact With Your Fire Claim Agent 
Remaining in the loop about your claim can help you understand which steps you need to revisit and whether your insurance will cover 100% of the repairs, including the assistance of fire restoration and mitigation service. Your insurance agent should keep you updated as your claim moves forward, but do not be afraid to call if you have any questions or if any problems come up during the insurance process. 
When you file a fire claim for your Melrose District, CA, business, understanding which steps to take can help you navigate this problem with more ease and make repairs in a timely manner so any work stoppage is minimal and you and your employees can get back up and running quickly.