If you have had a fire at your home, you will want to assess the damage after you have taken the necessary precautions of securing your home from further damage. Evaluating the extent of the damage caused to your home and personal belongings will help your insurance adjuster to efficiently process a claim.
You can start your inspection on the outside of your home. Evaluate the building and lot only if it is determined safe. You should keep a visual record of the damage by taking photos and using a video camera.
Look at the exterior roof, walls, and yard. Take note of any collapsed portions of the roof, missing or burnt shingles, damaged gutters, cracks or damaged chimney, and stained exterior surfaces.
For the interior of your home, start from the top and document the bedrooms and bathrooms. Check the stained ceiling, walls, floors, wood, windows and doors in all bedrooms. Note any damage to bathtubs, sinks, and toilets.
When you are finished with the structural evaluation, continue on to assess the damage done to your belongings. Create a list of the damaged or lost items for your adjuster and provide any receipts for those items that may be available.
It is important to be as thorough as possible when creating the list. Do not switch appliances on if they have exposed to water. List every damaged piece of furniture, and be sure to inspect any wood furniture very closely. All cabinets and dressers should be opened and inspected inside. List all damage to carpets, rugs, fabric curtains, and upholstery. Include loose items such as books, important documents, photographs, CDs, DVDs, and hard drives.
Once you have finished your own damage assessment, provide a copy to your insurance agent and the adjuster so that your claim can be processed.
If you have any further questions about how this process takes place, contact your insurance agent.
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