Source: Pensacola News Journal
Conditions are ripe for fires to continue burning throughout the Panhandle and residents should take extreme caution when doing any type of burn over at least the next couple of weeks, according to an expert with the Florida Forest Service.
Drought conditions and low humidity are allowing for Escambia County’s Hurst Hammock Fire and Santa Rosa County’s Five Mile Swamp Fire to continue smoldering, although fire crews had both 90% contained as of Tuesday. But anywhere in the area is just one spark away from another catastrophic blaze.
Fire Damage Can Be Devastating
Whether or not your insurance policy covers smoke and fire damage depends on the specific terms of your policy. It’s important to understand what these terms mean before you purchase a policy and before you file an insurance claim. That’s why you should always consult with an experienced insurance attorney.
The visual damage from a fire is readily apparent. Your home and belongings might be charred, blackened or in ashes. But there are secondary, sometimes less visible, effects that can be just as damaging. Two examples are:
- Smoke damage — The smell of smoke can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, the smell can also be difficult to get rid of, and you might be tempted to dump your belongings, but don’t do so before the extent of the damage has been thoroughly documented.
- Water damage — This type of damage might not be the first thing that comes to mind when your house catches on fire, but since firefighters will use water to extinguish the flames your house and belongings are at risk of sustaining water damage. Also, if the structural damage is such that the inside of your house is now exposed to the elements, you also risk water damage caused by rain.
Contact Us Today for Assistance
Fire damage can affect all or part of a property. Fortunately, homeowners’ insurance policies cover damage for fire, smoke and water. At the Insurance Litigation Group. we will walk you through the terms of your insurance policy and the insurance claims process. We will take the time to thoroughly analyze your policy and will work to resolve any coverage dispute and also litigate issues of liability and damages to achieve an expeditious payment of benefits owed. Our office includes speakers of English, Spanish, Creole and Russian to meet your needs
Contact us today for a free consultation if your property has sustained fire, smoke or water damage.
Although the pandemic has changed the way many businesses operate, please know that ILG remains open and fully functional, using many tools so we can continue to serve you during these uncertain times, safely and efficiently.
