Most of us look forward to the warmer summer months when we can spend more time outside, especially in our backyards. We host more gatherings and parties including backyard barbecues, and cook up a storm in our kitchens. Summer is also the time when outdoor residential insurance fire damage claims peak. That’s because the sometimes extreme heat can leave lawns tinder dry, and care must be taken when grilling and even storing combustibles. Lithium ion batteries and kitchen fires are other sources of summer fire claims. As a leading public adjuster firm, United Public Adjusters & Appraisers offers these suggestions to enable homeowners to prevent summer fires on their property. In the event of a fire, our team can assist to prepare and submit residential and coop/condo fire damage claims, as well. Here’s what you need to know:
Lightning strikes notwithstanding, most outdoor fires are avoidable. In recent years, gas grills have contributed to almost 9,000 property damage claims. It is a no-brainer to remember to keep your grill clean. When grilling, place it away from flammable materials, such as your home and wooden deck railings. Consider installing lawn sprinklers. Not only will they pay dividends as a value-add when you sell your home, but an inground sprinkler system will greatly reduce the possibility of a fire from a carelessly discarded cigarette or even sparkler fireworks. Don’t have sprinklers? On days when the temps soar, for an extra measure of protection, hose down the lawn near your house and around any outbuildings or sheds. Finally, do not store gas or lighter fluid in an unventilated shed. In the heat, vapors will build up and combust.
As for indoor fire hazards, the kitchen remains the primary source. The solution here is to keep a kitchen fire extinguisher on the counter where it can readily be accessed when needed. Other sources of summer fires can be overtaxed electrical systems and lithium-ion batteries. If you plug in a fan or in the window air conditioner, unplug your TV, or countertop appliances. Additionally, do not overload outlets by using power strips, or extension cords to charge appliances, and devices.
In addition to solid advice on how to avoid most common household fire hazards, United Public Adjusters & Appraisers wants you to know that we have your back should you ever have to prepare and submit a fire damage claim to your insurer. What can a public adjuster do for you? To start, before you call your insurer, call our team. We will:
- Visit your premises to document and assess damages.
- Review your policies and confirm coverages.
- Prepare a comprehensive Scope of Loss and Repair/Replacement Estimate.
- Assist you to inventory and value your personal property.
- Prepare claim documents.
- Negotiate with your insurer for a full and fair settlement as outlined in your policy.
At United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, our goal is to provide our clients with complete peace of mind. Our professionalism and customer service has won accolades from client after client for whom we have prepared and negotiated their residential, coop/condo fire damage claim. Learn more about how our scope of services can benefit you.
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