Essential Fire Safety and Navigating Fire Damage Claims
Has your home suffered fire or smoke damage? Click here for a Free Professional Fire Damage Assessment to ensure your recovery covers more than just the surface-level damage.
Residential Claim Focus:
- Prevention First: The critical importance of working smoke detectors and fire escape plans in Pennsylvania homes.
- The "Hidden" Damage: Why smoke and soot particles behind walls can be just as damaging as the fire itself.
- Health and Safety: Navigating air quality concerns and professional remediation after a house fire.
- Immediate Steps: Why you should avoid cleaning soot yourself before an adjuster documents the loss.
- Total Loss vs. Repair: Understanding how PA insurance policies determine if a home is salvageable.
Protecting Your Home and Your Future After a Fire
Fire is one of the most traumatic events a homeowner in the Newton area can experience. Beyond the immediate danger, the aftermath involves a complex insurance process that requires meticulous attention to detail. In this video, we discuss essential fire safety tips to protect your family and explain the technical hurdles involved in filing a fire damage insurance claim.
When a fire occurs, the damage isn't limited to what was touched by flames. In our region, tightly sealed homes often trap smoke and corrosive soot in ventilation systems, wall cavities, and flooring. Insurance companies often try to "clean" items that should be replaced, or they overlook the structural integrity of the home’s framing. We highlight why a professional assessment is necessary to identify these hidden hazards that could affect your home’s air quality and safety for years to come.
Navigating the "Proof of Loss" requirements for a fire claim is an immense task. From cataloging every personal item destroyed to calculating the cost of temporary housing (ALE), our team at 21st Century Public Adjusters ensures that the carrier's settlement reflects the true cost of rebuilding your life.
My house smells like smoke, but there is no fire damage. Can I still file a claim?
Yes. Smoke and soot are considered physical damage in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. If your neighbor had a fire or your furnace "puffed back," your policy may cover the professional deep cleaning and deodorization required to make your home safe.
Does it cost anything to have you look at my home?
No. We provide free initial inspections and work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if we successfully recover money for you.
Should I hire a restoration company before calling a public adjuster?
It is often better to consult with your adjuster first. While emergency services (like boarding up windows) are necessary, a public adjuster ensures that the restoration company's scope of work aligns with what you are actually entitled to under your policy.
Can I hire you if I already received a check from the insurance company?
Yes! If the settlement you received isn't enough to cover your actual repair costs, we can reopen the claim and file for a "supplement" to get you the remaining funds.
We Help You Rebuild After the Smoke Clears
At 21st Century Public Adjusters, we have seen firsthand how devastating fire can be for Newton families. Our mission is to handle the overwhelming paperwork and carrier negotiations so you can focus on your family’s well-being. We fight to ensure every bit of damage—seen and unseen—is paid for.
Don't navigate the aftermath of a fire alone. Our experienced team is here to provide the advocacy and documentation you need to restore your home to its original condition.