Fire Insurance: Three Reasons Why Damages May Not Be Covered

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Residential fire damage

Having fire insurance for your home can protect it and your belongings from the ravages of smoke and flames. Since a home fire is almost impossible to predict, your insurance can cast a wide safety net when it comes to helping you recoup any losses. However, there are a few cases where fire insurance might not cover the damage and knowing what they are can help you be prepared for the future. 

1. Arson 

Arson can be a common cause of fire, especially if the homeowner is short on cash and his or her home is worth more destroyed than whole. Those who deliberately set a fire might do so for several reasons; however, today’s forensic science techniques can detect when an accelerant has been used or identify flash burn patterns that usually do not occur during natural fires, which can be helpful for investigating a suspicious blaze.

2. If a Home Is Empty 

Fire insurance usually does not cover damage to a vacant home or its contents. While all insurance providers have different definitions, most might consider a home to be vacant after it is left empty for more than 30 days. If you plan to travel or be away for an extended period of time, contact your insurance company and ask about modifying your policy to protect your home while you are gone. 

3. Fraud 

Being untruthful about what caused a home fire may prompt an insurance company to refuse your claim. Even if a fire started accidentally, trying to downplay or lie about the circumstances to your restoration company or insurance adjuster may result in you having to pay for the damages out of pocket. Even if the cause of the fire was embarrassing, honesty is the best course of action when describing the details. 

If you do suffer fire damage to your home, call SERVPRO of Texarkana for all your clean up and restoration needs. 903-832-4400