Fire Damage Insurance Claims Made Simple
Making a fire damage claim can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to face it alone.
At PCLA, we specialise in handling fire damage insurance claims across Northern Ireland and the UK. Our experienced loss assessors work only for you – not the insurer – to make sure your claim is prepared properly and you receive the full settlement you’re entitled to.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire and aren’t sure what steps to take, call PCLA today for free, impartial advice.
Get Expert Support From PCLA
Fire insurance claims aren’t always straightforward. Insurers process thousands of fire damage cases each year, and it’s common for valid claims to be delayed, reduced, or rejected because of how they are presented.
That’s where PCLA makes the difference. Unlike the insurer’s loss adjuster — who works for them — we work only for you. Our role is to:
Identify every aspect of damage and loss that should be included in your claim
Prepare professional evidence and costings that insurers can’t easily dispute
Challenge any attempt to undervalue or delay your settlement
Keep the process moving so you can focus on restoring your home and life
With independent expertise on your side, you can be confident your fire damage claim is handled correctly and that you receive the full settlement you’re entitled to.
PCLA take the stress out of fire insurance claims.
When should I call the insurance company after a house fire?
You should contact PCLA as soon as possible and before you contact your insurance company. As professional loss assessors, it is our job to make sure your claim is submitted properly and as fast as possible. However, If you have already contacted your insurer, PCLA can still be appointed at any stage of the claim.
How do you deal with an insurance company after a house fire?
PCLA take the stress out of dealing with insurance companies. It’s our job to liaise with the insurance company on your behalf. We’ll keep you up to date on the progress of your claim. You can contact us at any time to discuss your case.
PCLA will notify the insurer of your loss and arrange to meet with their appointed Loss Adjuster. As qualified Building Surveyors, PCLA have the skill and expertise to assess any damage that has been sustained to your property.
We compile fully costed schedules of the damage which form the basis of the claim which we use in the negotiation with your insurer. There is nothing for you to do and PCLA take away all the stress of dealing with your insurer.
How do I make a household fire insurance claim?
The easiest way to make a fire insurance claim is to get PCLA to do it for you. Our team manages the claims process on your behalf, so you don’t have to. PCLA will check your insurance policy documents to confirm if you are covered for loss or damage to property or contents caused by fire, smoke or an explosion.
If you appoint PCLA as soon as possible, we can start building your case and answering your questions. We know this is a difficult time and we are here to help you through it.
How do fire insurance claims work?
The first thing you need to do is appoint PCLA to act on your behalf. PCLA will notify your insurance company to start your claim. Our team of professional loss assessors will handle the entire claims process for you.
What happens after a house fire?
After you appoint PCLA they contact the insurance company. You should also report the fire to the owners of any neighbouring property that may have been damaged.
You should ensure your property is safe and secure to prevent any additional loss or damage.
Depending on the scale of the fire, you may need to check the structural integrity of the property. You will also need to have the property checked by an electrician.
PCLA can help with all of this.
Does your insurance policy cover you for fire damage?
Most policies come with fire protection. This helps cover the high cost of replacement, repair, or reconstruction of property. Your home contents insurance policy should also cover fire damage.
Check your insurance policy to learn more about what you are covered for or speak to PCLA for some free impartial advice.
How do I make sure I get what my policy entitles me to?
Contact PCLA as soon as possible. We will assess the damage to your property, cost the works required and negotiate with your insurer. That’s why, with PCLA acting on your behalf, we can ensure you get everything you are entitled to under your insurance policy.
Should you use a Loss Assessor?
Making an insurance claim can be very time consuming and often frustrating. We’re here to help. As experienced loss assessors we work on your behalf to manage the entire claim process, so you don’t have to, and to ensure you receive everything you are entitled to.
What our client's say
Why are fire insurance claims rejected?
It is important to read the terms and conditions of your insurance policy to understand what is and is not covered. You will need to meet certain conditions to remain insured.
Examples which may prohibit your insurance claim include:
- empty properties;
- lack of fire alarms;
- building work;
- if you smoke; and
- accidental damage;
How long does it take to settle a fire insurance claim?
Settling fire insurance claims can be complex and time consuming. Depending on the scale of the damage and the disruption to the policyholder, a claim could take many months. It’s not easy, but that’s where PCLA comes in. We remove the burden of making an insurance claim which allows you to focus on yourself.
Tips to prevent fires
- Test your smoke alarms regularly
- Have all heating sources checked annually by a qualified professional
- Keep your stove and oven clean and free of any debris such as food or dish cloths
- Don’t leave your kitchen when Cooking
- Always check your dryer. Lint build up in your dryer can lead to combustion from heat produced whilst drying
- Maintain all cords and discard any that are freyed or damaged
- Properly store flammable products
- Practice caution with candles
- Be careful with your fireplace. Never leave it unattended when lit and let all ashes cool down before disposing
- Keep fire extinguishers around.
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We offer help and advice for all instances of Commercial or Domestic Property Damage. Use the links below to learn more about how a loss assessor can take the stress out of your insurance claim.