What to Do Immediately After a Fire
Experiencing a fire in your home or business is devastating. The emotional toll, coupled with the damage to property, can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next after a fire. Once the fire is extinguished, the real challenge begins—navigating the recovery process and ensuring that your insurance claim fully covers your losses.
At A H Neaman Company, we specialize in fire damage insurance claims in Pennsylvania (PA), West Virginia (WV), and Maryland (MD). As experienced public adjusters, we help homeowners and business owners maximize their insurance settlements so they can rebuild and recover quickly.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the critical actions to take immediately after a fire, ensuring that you protect your safety, secure your property, and receive the insurance payout you deserve.
Step 1: Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
The first priority after a fire is ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Even if there are no visible injuries, smoke inhalation and minor burns can cause serious health issues. If necessary, call 911 for medical assistance.
Wait for Fire Officials to Clear the Property
Do not enter the property until the fire department declares it safe. Structural damage, toxic fumes, weakened floors, and falling debris pose serious hazards. Firefighters will conduct an initial assessment to determine if the building is stable.
Secure Temporary Shelter
If your home is uninhabitable, arrange for temporary housing. Many homeowners insurance policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which can help pay for hotel stays, meals, and other essentials while your home is being repaired.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify Your Insurance Provider Immediately
Most policies require prompt notification of fire damage. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Get a Claim Number and Adjuster Assignment
Once you file a claim, your insurer will assign an insurance adjuster to evaluate the damage. Keep detailed records of all conversations, emails, and documents related to your claim.
Understand Your Policy Coverage
Before accepting any offers, review your homeowners insurance policy to understand what’s covered, including:
- Dwelling Coverage (structure of the home)
- Personal Property Coverage (furniture, appliances, clothing, etc.)
- Loss of Use Coverage (temporary living expenses)
- Smoke and Water Damage
If you are unsure about your coverage, a public adjuster can help interpret your policy and ensure that you receive the maximum payout possible.
Step 3: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Take Photos and Videos
Before making any changes to the property, take extensive photos and videos of the fire damage. Include both interior and exterior shots, capturing:
✔️ Burned walls, ceilings, and flooring
✔️ Furniture and personal belongings
✔️ Roof damage and structural issues
✔️ Smoke and soot damage
Create an Inventory List
Document everything that was damaged or destroyed. Include:
- Item name and description
- Purchase date (if available)
- Estimated replacement cost
- Receipts or proof of purchase
Work With a Public Adjuster
Insurance companies often undervalue losses or overlook hidden damages. A public adjuster, like A H Neaman Company, ensures that your full loss is accounted for and negotiates on your behalf for a fair settlement.
Step 4: Prevent Further Damage
Secure the Property
To prevent looting, vandalism, or weather damage, take these steps:
- Board up broken windows and doors
- Cover exposed areas with tarps
- Turn off utilities (gas, water, electricity)
Avoid Making Permanent Repairs
Do not start major repairs until your claim is approved. However, temporary repairs that prevent further damage—such as boarding up windows or covering the roof—are typically reimbursable under your insurance policy.
Save All Receipts for Expenses
If you need to pay for emergency repairs, temporary housing, or essentials, keep all receipts. These expenses may be eligible for reimbursement under your insurance policy.
Step 5: File and Manage Your Insurance Claim
Work With a Public Adjuster for Maximum Compensation
A public adjuster works for you—not the insurance company. Insurance providers often offer low initial settlementsthat do not fully cover fire damage. At A H Neaman Company, we help homeowners and business owners in PA, WV, and MD by:
✅ Conducting a thorough damage assessment
✅ Filing all claim paperwork correctly and on time
✅ Negotiating with the insurance company for a higher payout
✅ Ensuring all hidden damages (smoke, soot, and water) are included
Watch for Lowball Offers and Claim Denials
Insurance companies may:
❌ Undervalue the cost of repairs
❌ Claim exclusions that don’t apply to your case
❌ Delay payments to pressure you into settling for less
Having a public adjuster on your side helps counter these tactics and ensures you receive a fair and full payout.
Stay Organized
Maintain a claim file that includes:
📂 A copy of your insurance policy
📂 All photos and videos of the damage
📂 Receipts for temporary repairs and living expenses
📂 Correspondence with your insurance company
This documentation is essential if you need to dispute a low settlement or appeal a denied claim.
Step 6: Begin the Restoration Process
Choose a Licensed Fire Damage Contractor
Before hiring a contractor, verify that they are:
✔ Licensed and insured
✔ Experienced in fire damage restoration
✔ Able to work with your insurance
Oversee the Repairs
Stay involved in the restoration process to ensure that:
- Repairs meet industry standards
- Materials match the original quality
- Hidden issues (like mold from water damage) are addressed
Continue Working With Your Public Adjuster
If unexpected costs arise or the insurance company delays payment, your public adjuster can help resolve disputes and keep the claim moving forward.
Final Thoughts: Why Call A H Neaman Company?
Recovering from a fire loss is a long and difficult process, but you don’t have to do it alone. A H Neaman Company is here to fight for you—ensuring that your fire damage claim is handled fairly and efficiently.
📞 Call A H Neaman Company today for a free consultation. Let our experienced public adjusters in PA, WV, and MD handle the insurance process, so you can focus on rebuilding your home and life. We work for you—not the insurance company.
