How To File a Commercial Fire Claim

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Burnt trusses in an attic at a commercial facility in Ste. Genevieve, MO

If a blaze tears through your commercial building, your insurance should help you pay for fire restoration services. First, however, you must file a fire claim. To make that process as painless as possible, follow the below steps.

Call Your Insurer

First, you need to tell your insurer about the fire. You can typically notify the company via phone, the internet or a mobile application. Make sure the insurer has your contact information and the location of the loss.
While your insurance provider may send you a proof of loss form, you should still invite adjusters to visit your property and see the damage for themselves. Adjusters have the professional training necessary to assess the full extent of the harm.

Secure the Premises

You do not want any more damage to occur to your building as you wait for the adjuster to arrive. If it is safe to do so, secure any broken doors or window and put a tarp over the roof.

Make and Collect Records

The insurance company will need proof of your loss to approve your fire claim. That means you need to snap photos of the fire damage. Do not throw any items away without taking a picture or video of them.
You should also gather receipts or other documents that show the value of your harmed inventory and equipment. If you plan to make a business interruption claim, you will also need to demonstrate how much your company was making before the fire. You can do this by giving the adjuster financial statements and tax records.
If you have to spend extra money to keep your business running after the fire, document these expenses, as well. Do not forget to record any harm to your company vehicles, either.
A fire in your commercial property can be scary. However, working with your insurance company and filing a fire claim can help you rebuild.