10 House Fire Myths That Can Cost You A Claim

Key Takeaways:

• Home fire damages can be costly; filing an insurance claim can provide financial relief.
• It is important to note that homeowners must pay their deductible before receiving compensation from the home insurance company.
• Various home fire myths can lead to homeowners not filing a claim when they should.
• Homeowners should be aware of home fire safety tips to prevent home fires from occurring.
• Homeowners need to select an experienced contractor familiar with the claims process.
• Filing a home insurance claim can protect homeowners from potential legal action should anyone be injured or property damaged.

House fires can be disastrous. The cost of replacing lost property, belongings, and valuables in a fire is immense. Fire insurance mitigates the risk of losing your shirt after a fire at your house. However, while plenty of reliable information is available to help with the insurance claims process, several myths are also around.

Luckily, vigilance and information can help homeowners understand how not to let myths lead them astray when filing a claim with their insurance company. It’s also suggested that you contact a home restoration contractor to gain the appropriate knowledge about your options.

Let’s explore some common myths that may derail your recovery after a house fire so you can steer clear of them.

House Fire Myths That Can Cost You a Claim

1. Fire Spreads Slowly

One of the more pervasive myths about home fires is that they burn slowly, giving you time to react. In truth, a home fire can move faster than you expect, and if not caught early enough, it can cause severe destruction. To prevent such an event, ensure your home has working smoke detectors on every floor and periodically conduct circuitry checks by qualified electricians.

2. The Flames Are the Biggest Threat

Fire is not only destructive because of the flames but also due to the smoke and heat it produces. Smoke inhalation can be just as dangerous as the flames, so staying aware of what is happening with both is important. Ensure your home has multiple escape routes if a fire breaks out and you must get outside quickly.

3. Insurance Covers Everything

Unfortunately, insurance policies do not cover every expense of home restoration after a fire. Depending on the type of policy you hold, certain items may be excluded from coverage or require additional fees for replacement. It’s best to review your home insurance policy before filing a claim and understand any exclusions or limits that may apply.

4. Children Know When to Escape from A House Fire

Children may not realize the dangers of a home fire, and, in some cases, they may be too scared to escape. It’s crucial to reinforce safety measures with children by teaching them how to make an emergency exit plan and practice it multiple times.

5. Pets Can Sense Any Danger and Will Always Escape House Fires

Although pets have a stronger sense of smell than humans, they cannot detect an oncoming home fire and will not be able to alert you in time. It’s essential to ensure your family has an emergency plan that includes any pets and practices it frequently.

6. Smoke Detectors Are the Only Form of Home Fire Protection

Smoke detectors are essential for home fire safety, but there are other measures you can take as well. Investing in home security systems with fire detection features can provide additional peace of mind.

Additionally, having multiple layers of home insulation can reduce smoke throughout the house and slow the spread of flames during a home fire.

7. Small Candles Are Not a Threat

Many home fires start in the bedroom, and although small candles may seem harmless, they can be one of the most significant home fire hazards. Ensure all candles are placed away from flammable materials like curtains or bedding.

8. Leaving The Kitchen While the Food Is Cooking Is Fine

Leaving the kitchen while food is cooking is one of the prime causes of home fires. If you must leave the room, even temporarily, turn off the stove to prevent a fire from starting.

9. You Can Put Out a Grease Fire with Water

Grease fires should never be put out with water. Water will only spread the grease and make the fire worse. The best way to extinguish a grease fire is to cover it with a lid or baking soda.

10. You Don’t Need a Home Restoration Contractor for Filing a Claim

When filing a home insurance claim for damages resulting from a home fire, having an experienced contractor is crucial.

Reasons Why You Need a Home Restoration Contractor

A home restoration contractor experienced with home fire damage can help you understand the claims process and identify any hidden damages your home insurance may not cover. They will also work with you to ensure that the costs of restoring your home are appropriately accounted for in the claim.

Moreover, a home restoration contractor can provide a timeline of repairs and help coordinate with the insurance company to expedite approval for necessary repairs. This means you won’t have to wait weeks or even months for repairs to begin on your home.

Here are some questions to ask a contractor before hiring them.

How Much Does a Claim Cost?

The costs associated with filing a home fire damage claim vary and depend upon the type and extent of the damage. Generally, home insurance policyholders are responsible for paying their deductible to their home insurance company before receiving compensation for the remaining home fire damages.

Filing a home insurance claim can financially assist your home restoration efforts and protect you from potential legal actions.

Ultimately, by understanding these common home fire myths and taking the necessary steps to prevent fires in your home, you can save yourself from costly losses due to house fires.

Furthermore, knowing the claim filing process and hiring a home restoration contractor can help ensure you are adequately compensated for any home fire damages.

J & E Restoration Pros offers water and mold restoration and emergency plumbing services in Cumming, GA. If you have any home issue that requires restoration efforts, start a new claim today!

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