Our Services 

WATER DAMAGE CLAIMS

Water damage claims and fire damage claims are two common insurance claims that property owners may face. Water damage can result in various types of losses, such as the deterioration of materials, rotting of wood, rusting of steel, and delamination of plywood, among others. It can occur gradually, with minor signs like water spots, or suddenly, as in the case of a catastrophic flood. Regardless of the speed at which it occurs, water damage poses a significant threat to property.

Regarding insurance coverage, policies may or may not include provisions for water damage claims and the subsequent restoration process. Homeowner's insurance policies often require additional appendices, such as "Sewer and Drain Coverage," to cover associated costs, which can increase monthly premiums. Similarly, fire damage claims may have specific coverage terms and requirements.

In instances of widespread flooding, individuals affected by water damage may have the option to seek government assistance, including grants through programs like FEMA's Individual Assistance. On a larger scale, businesses, cities, and communities can apply for funds through FEMA's Public Assistance program to aid in the aftermath of a significant flood.

This program may support purchasing water-damaged properties, demolishing structures, and transforming them into public green spaces. Understanding the complexities of water and fire damage claims, along with available insurance coverage and government assistance programs, is crucial for property owners dealing with such incidents.

SMOKE DAMAGE CLAIMS

Fire is dangerous, and smoke damage is not friendly at all. Did you know that the flames themselves might not be the greatest risk as far as health dangers and property damage? Fire smoke is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a 3/1 ratio, and while direct exposure to smoke is harmful to your respiratory system, it can also negatively affect your property’s structure.

Smoke damage from any type of fire is comprised of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and soot. Many other harmful chemicals also enter the air are inhaled or latch onto walls, furniture, clothing, duct-work and other areas.

When it comes to your property, knowing how temperature, the surrounding environment, particle ionization, and airflow patterns affect smoke distribution can help you better restore your property.

FIRE DAMAGE CLAIMS

Fire damage refers to the physical damage to a property as a result of burning. Fire damage may either be directly caused by the flames or could occur due to smoke and other corrosive substances emitted by the fire.

In terms of insurance, fire damage is one of the types of coverage offered in property insurance.

The six types of fire damage claims are as follows:

Class A:  fire that involves flammable solids, such as paper, cloth, wood, and plastics.
Class B:  fire that involves flammable liquids or solids that can turn into liquids.
Class C:  fire that involves flammable gasses, such as propane, hydrogen, natural gas, and butane.
Class D:  fire that involves combustible metals, including sodium, magnesium, and potassium.
Class E: fire that involves factors in Class A and B as well as electrical elements.
Class F:  relatively hotter and more destructive fire that involves cooking oils and fats.

Furthermore, many insurance companies divide fire damage into two categories: Primary and secondary. The former refers to damage caused by the flames, while the latter refers to damage caused by smoke or other substances from the fire.