As a Texas insurance claim law firm, we understand that any natural disaster, including a fire, can cause a homeowner a great amount of pain due to the losses suffered. In order to help you prevent a wildfire from destroying or causing fire damage to your home, we have compiled a list of tips to help you.
Things to Do Before a Wildfire
- Remove as much flammable material as possible from around your home. Try to create a 30-foot space all the way around your home: this includes removing flammable vegetation that could be moved out further and replaced with fire-resistive plants.
- Keep liquid propane gas tanks at least 30 feet away from any structure and away from woodpiles and flammable vegetation.
- Eliminate overhanging branches that are close to the roof or chimney.
- Cover the chimney outlet with a non-flammable screening.
- Prune lower branches on taller trees that fall within six feet of the ground.
- Remove all leaves from roof gutters.
Things to Do During a Fire or as the Fire Nears Your Home
- Take down all drapes and curtains.
- Close all windows and doors.
- Position a ladder at the front of the house.
- Wet down your roof and leave the garden hose accessible.
- Turn off the gas at the meter and the butane tank.
- Know when to leave.
- Have an evacuation plan in place.
Tips for Dealing with the Insurance Company After Wildfire Damage
- Contact your insurance company to notify them of the natural disaster.
- Stay in contact and follow up with the insurer. Make sure you turn in the right forms by the dates indicated.
- Ask for living expenses for temporary shelter.
- Cooperate with the insurance adjuster but never give a recorded statement. Also, don’t sign off on a full settlement until you are confident the offer is enough to cover your damages.
- Keep any and all correspondence with the insurance company involving your wildfire insurance claim.
- Take pictures of your property damage immediately, if the area is accessible and it is safe to do so.
- Talk with an insurance attorney if there is a disagreement about your fire damage claim, if you do not feel your claim payout is fair, if your claim is denied, or if your claim is taking too long.
To speak with an experienced Houston insurance claim attorney for help getting what you deserve after a wildfire, call the Voss Law Firm at 888-614-7730 for a free, no-obligation consultation, and request a free copy of our book, Disputes With Your Insurance Company – What All Consumers Need to Know.
