The short answer
Structure and Belongings
Your policy usually covers the physical structure of your home, such as walls, roof, and built-in fixtures. It also covers personal belongings like furniture, clothing, and electronics damaged by fire, smoke, or soot. This is the core of most standard homeowners policies.
Coverage limits apply, so check your policy to see if you have replacement cost or actual cash value. Replacement cost pays to replace items at today's prices, while actual cash value deducts depreciation. Keep an inventory of your possessions to make the claims process easier.
Additional Living Expenses
If a fire makes your home uninhabitable, your policy may cover hotel stays, restaurant meals, and other extra costs while you are displaced. This is often called loss of use or additional living expenses. It helps maintain your normal standard of living during repairs.
This coverage has limits, often a percentage of your dwelling coverage. Keep receipts for all expenses you incur, as your insurer will want documentation. The length of coverage varies, so review your policy to understand how long you are protected.
- Hotel or rental costs
- Meals at restaurants
- Laundry and cleaning services
- Storage for your belongings
- Transportation if your car is also damaged
Smoke and Soot Damage
Smoke and soot can damage walls, upholstery, and electronics even if the fire is contained. Your policy may cover cleaning and restoration of these items. Professional cleaning can remove odors and residue, but it is not always successful. Coverage depends on your policy's terms.
If items cannot be cleaned, they may be covered as a total loss. Document the damage with photos and keep samples of affected materials if possible. Your adjuster will assess the extent of the damage and determine what is payable.
Fire Causes and Exclusions
Policies often cover fires that are sudden and accidental, such as from a cooking accident, electrical fault, or lightning. However, fires caused by neglect, like leaving a space heater on unattended, may be excluded. Arson by the homeowner is never covered. Always check your policy's exclusions.
Wildfires are typically covered, but some areas may have restrictions. If you live in a fire-prone region, you might need a separate policy. Always read your policy's exclusions to know what is not covered, and ask your insurance company if you have questions.
- Intentional fires
- Fires from illegal activities
- Fires due to lack of maintenance
- Flood-related fires (check your policy)
- Fires from certain natural events (check your policy)
Steps After a Fire
After ensuring everyone is safe, call your insurance company to report the fire. Take photos of all damage before any cleanup. Do not throw away damaged items until the adjuster has seen them. Keep a list of everything you discard.
Mitigate further damage by covering broken windows or holes in the roof, but do not attempt major repairs yourself. Local water damage pros can help with smoke and soot cleanup, but only after your insurer approves the work. Check your policy for deadlines to file a claim.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover fire damage to a rental property?
Renters insurance covers your personal belongings and liability, but not the building itself. The landlord's insurance covers the structure. If you are a landlord, your policy covers the dwelling and may cover loss of rent. Check your policy for specifics.
What if the fire was caused by a neighbor?
Your own insurance may cover the damage, and your insurer may seek reimbursement from the neighbor's insurance company. This is called subrogation. You may still need to pay your deductible, but it could be refunded if the other party is found liable.
How long do I have to file a fire claim?
Most policies require you to report a loss promptly, often within one year, but this varies. Check your policy for the specific time frame. Delaying can complicate the process, so contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the fire.