A major fire loss is emotionally and financially devastating. Once the flames are out, the recovery begins – but for many homeowners, the challenges are just beginning. One of the most overlooked and misunderstood parts of the recovery process is how your personal property – everything from clothing to electronics to heirlooms – is treated by your insurance company.
Here’s what they won’t tell you: insurance companies often prefer to clean and restore your fire-damaged personal property using their own preferred vendors, rather than paying to fully replace your belongings. On paper, it sounds reasonable. If an item can be cleaned, why replace it?
But here’s the truth:
Just Because It Looks Clean Doesn’t Mean It’s Safe
Even if your furniture, clothing, or electronics look salvageable, they may still be harboring toxic chemicals – especially after exposure to smoke, soot, or water from firefighting efforts. Many of these chemicals are invisible and can cause long-term health risks if not properly addressed.
That’s why it’s critical to bring in professionals like:
- Public Adjusters – to advocate on your behalf and document the true value and condition of your belongings.
- Toxicologists – to test for chemical contamination and determine whether items are safe.
- Industrial Hygienists – to assess air quality and contamination levels in personal property and the home.
Together, this team can build a strong case for a full replacement of your personal property – not just surface-level cleaning.
Don’t Trust the Cleaning Companies Sent by Your Insurance
Preferred vendors work for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to save the insurer money by cleaning instead of replacing your items. But when “clean” just means “looks okay,” your health and safety could be compromised – and you may end up with contaminated items back in your home.
You Have a Right to a Full Replacement - or the Cash Equivalent
Here’s something most homeowners don’t realize: if your personal property items are deemed cleanable, but you choose not to clean them, you may be entitled to keep the cleaning allowance. That’s right – you can pocket the cost that would’ve gone toward cleaning.
Cleaning costs for contents and textiles can run upwards of $100,000. So why would you opt to bring back potentially compromised items, when you could instead apply that budget toward replacing items – or keep it entirely?
What This Means for You
- You’re not obligated to use the insurance company’s cleaning vendor.
- You can challenge their assessment with the help of experts.
- You may be entitled to a full replacement payout – or the cleaning costs in cash.
Final Thoughts: Fight for What You’re Owed
In the aftermath of a fire, you’re vulnerable. Insurance companies know this – and too often, they take advantage of it. But with the right professionals by your side, you can level the playing field and make sure your claim is handled fairly.
Don’t settle for less. Demand full value for your loss, protect your health, and get the payout you deserve.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
On-Site Adjusting is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can advocate for you throughout your insurance claim.
📞 Call us at (866) 861-4992
📧 Email us at info@onsiteadjusting.com
