Does Insurance Cover Fire Damage?

What fire insurance usually covers

A standard homeowners policy generally covers sudden, accidental fire damage across several areas.

• Structural damage to the home from fire, smoke and soot.
• Water damage from firefighting efforts.
• Personal belongings damaged or destroyed by the fire.
• Additional living expenses if you cannot stay in the home during repairs.
• Emergency services such as board-up and tarping to secure the property.

What may be limited or excluded

Coverage can be reduced when a fire was not sudden and accidental, or when high-value items exceed policy limits.

• Fires caused intentionally by the homeowner are excluded.
• Vacant property fires may be limited depending on the policy.
• High-value items like jewelry or art may have caps unless separately scheduled.

Additional living expenses

One benefit many homeowners overlook is coverage for additional living expenses. If your home is not livable during repairs, your policy often helps pay for temporary housing, meals and related costs. Keep receipts and ask your insurer how this coverage works on your policy.

How to protect your fire claim

• Report the fire to your insurer promptly.
• Photograph and video all damage before anything is moved.
• Keep damaged items until the adjuster has reviewed them.
• Save receipts for lodging, meals and emergency expenses.
• Let your restoration company document the loss and coordinate with the adjuster.

We handle the claim with you

Filing a fire claim while coping with the loss is a lot to carry. At Turning On, we work directly with all major insurers, document the damage thoroughly and coordinate with your adjuster while our fire damage restoration team secures and restores your home. Call (425) 772-9467 for help.