Fire losses are three claims in one
A kitchen fire in a Lacey split-level is usually a structure claim, a contents claim and an additional living expense claim at the same time. Each has its own limit, its own documentation and its own disagreements. The structure estimate decides what gets rebuilt. The contents inventory decides what gets replaced. ALE decides where you live while it happens.
Where we see the biggest gaps
- Smoke migration. Smoke travels through HVAC ducts, attics and wall cavities. Cleaning only the rooms near the fire leaves odor behind.
- Clean versus replace. Soft goods, insulation and porous surfaces often can’t be restored to pre-loss condition.
- Sealing and odor control. Thermal fogging, sealing framing and duct cleaning are left off or under-priced.
- Code upgrades. Rebuilding a burned area can trigger electrical, energy and smoke-detector requirements.
- Contents depreciation. Aggressive depreciation on electronics, furniture and clothing.
Contents inventories
Building a contents list from memory is exhausting. We help organize photos, receipts and room-by-room lists into a format adjusters and appraisers recognize, with replacement prices and reasonable depreciation for each item.
For losses caused by wildfire smoke and ash rather than a house fire, see our wildfire and ash appraisal page.
Frequently asked questions
Should I throw away smoke-damaged items?
Not before they’re documented. Photograph everything, list it and ask the insurer before disposing of items, unless they’re a health hazard.
How long do I have to submit a contents list?
Your policy and any proof-of-loss request set the timing. Ask for extensions in writing if you need more time.
Can appraisal decide what’s cleanable?
Usually yes. Whether an item can be restored to pre-loss condition affects its value, which falls within the amount of loss.
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