Why Your Fire Insurance Claim Might Be Denied: Key Reasons

12 Shocking Reasons Why Insurance Companies Deny Fire Claims

Reasons insurance companies deny fire claims can leave homeowners with unexpected financial burdens and significant distress. These denials often stem from issues such as inadequate coverage, arson suspicions, undisclosed information, policy exclusions, unmet policy requirements, or even disputes over property valuations.

  • Lack of Adequate Coverage: Ensure your fire insurance coverage is comprehensive and up to date.
  • Arson Suspicion: Investigations may cause delays or denials if intentional fire-setting is suspected.
  • Undisclosed Information or Mistakes: Missing or incorrect details can lead to claim issues.
  • Negligence: Claims might be denied if negligence contributed to the fire incident.
  • Missed Deadlines: Timely claim filing and premium payments are crucial.

Navigating these complexities requires careful attention to policy details and understanding the reasons behind potential claim denials. Homeowners facing a denied or underpaid claim often need guidance to untangle these issues and secure fair compensation.

An infographic detailing common reasons for fire insurance claim denials, including lack of coverage, suspicion of arson, policy exclusions, negligence, and improper filing practices. - reasons insurance companies deny fire claims infographic infographic-line-5-steps-dark

1. Insufficient Coverage

One of the most common reasons insurance companies deny fire claims is insufficient coverage. This can happen when homeowners don’t have enough insurance to cover the full extent of fire-related damages. Understanding your policy’s coverage limits and ensuring they align with your property’s value is crucial.

Coverage Limits

Insurance policies have specific coverage limits, which define the maximum amount an insurer will pay for a claim. If your home and belongings are valued higher than these limits, you might find yourself underinsured. For example, if your policy covers up to $200,000 but your home is valued at $250,000, you could be responsible for the difference if a fire causes total loss.

Specific Fire Types

Not all fires are treated equally under insurance policies. Some policies might exclude certain types of fires, like those caused by natural disasters or specific mechanical failures. It’s vital to know what your policy covers and excludes.

For instance, wildfires might require additional coverage, especially in high-risk areas. A standard policy might not cover damage from these events unless supplemental coverage is added.

Supplemental Coverage

Supplemental coverage can be a lifesaver in case of fire. This extra coverage can include guaranteed replacement cost, which ensures your home is rebuilt to its original state, regardless of inflation or increased construction costs.

Another option is building code coverage, which covers the cost of bringing your property up to date with current building codes during reconstruction. These supplements can be essential, especially if your area has updated regulations that your original construction doesn’t meet.

Understanding the importance of supplemental coverage - reasons insurance companies deny fire claims infographic 4_facts_emoji_light-gradient

Pro Tip: Regularly review your policy and adjust your coverage as necessary. This ensures you remain fully protected against potential fire risks.

In summary, ensuring your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your specific needs can prevent the frustration of a denied fire claim. By understanding your policy’s limits and considering supplemental options, you can safeguard against unexpected financial burdens.

2. Fire Safety Negligence

Neglecting fire safety can lead to a denied insurance claim. Insurers expect homeowners to follow fire safety regulations and maintain their property to prevent fires.

Fire Safety Regulations

Fire safety regulations exist to protect you and your property. They often require smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and proper electrical wiring. Insurance companies may deny a claim if they find you ignored these rules.

For example, if a fire starts because you didn’t have working smoke alarms, your insurer might refuse to pay. It’s important to know and comply with local fire safety codes to avoid this.

Maintenance is Key

Regular maintenance of fire safety equipment is crucial. This includes checking smoke detectors, servicing fire extinguishers, and ensuring electrical systems are safe. Neglecting these can be seen as negligence by insurers.

Imagine your fire extinguishers are expired and fail during a fire. Your insurance might deny your claim, arguing you didn’t maintain necessary safety measures. Regular checks can prevent such scenarios.

Avoid Negligence

Negligence is a big reason for claim denials. If insurers find you didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent a fire, they may not cover the damages.

Consider a case where faulty wiring caused a fire, but you ignored an electrician’s advice to fix it. This oversight could lead to a denial due to negligence. Always address potential fire hazards promptly.

Tip: Keep records of all maintenance and safety checks. This documentation can support your claim if a fire occurs, showing you were diligent about fire safety.

By adhering to fire safety regulations, maintaining your property, and avoiding negligence, you reduce the risk of a denied fire insurance claim. Taking these proactive steps ensures you are prepared and protected.

3. Defective Workmanship

Defective workmanship can be a major reason why insurance companies deny fire claims. This happens when faulty construction or poor-quality repairs contribute to a fire. Let’s break down how this can lead to claim denials.

Faulty Construction

If your home was built with defective materials or poor construction practices, it might not withstand fire hazards as expected. For instance, using non-fire-resistant materials in areas prone to fires can lead to significant damage. Insurance companies may argue that the fire damage resulted from these construction flaws and deny your claim.

Contractor Negligence

Contractor negligence can also play a big role. If a contractor fails to follow building codes or uses substandard materials, they might be liable for any resulting fire damage. For example, if a contractor improperly installs electrical wiring, leading to a fire, your insurer might deny the claim, pointing to the contractor’s negligence.

Tip: Always verify that your contractor is licensed and insured. This can help mitigate risks and ensure accountability if something goes wrong.

Liability Disputes

When a fire is linked to defective workmanship, liability disputes can arise. Insurance companies might argue that the contractor, not the policyholder, is responsible for the damage. This can lead to a complex situation where the insurance company denies the claim, leaving you to pursue compensation from the contractor.

Case in Point: In one case, a homeowner’s claim was denied after a fire was traced back to improperly installed heating systems. The insurer argued that the contractor was at fault, leading to a lengthy legal battle over liability.

Advice: Keep detailed records of all construction and repairs, including contracts and receipts. This documentation can help establish who is responsible in the event of a fire.

Understanding how defective workmanship can impact your fire insurance claim is crucial. By ensuring quality construction and holding contractors accountable, you can prevent potential claim denials and protect your home.

4. Non-Payment of Insurance Premiums

Non-payment of insurance premiums is a straightforward but common reason insurance companies deny fire claims. Let’s explore how this happens and what it means for your coverage.

Policy Lapse

When you don’t pay your insurance premiums on time, your policy can lapse. This means your insurance coverage stops, leaving you unprotected. If a fire occurs after your policy has lapsed, your insurance company will deny any claims for damages.

Example: Imagine missing a few premium payments due to financial difficulties. If a fire then damages your home, your insurer may point to the lapsed policy as a reason to deny your claim.

Premium Payments

Timely and regular premium payments are essential to keep your insurance policy active. It’s like paying for a subscription service—if you don’t pay, you lose access. Without consistent payments, you risk having no coverage when you need it most.

Pro Tip: Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a premium due date. This simple step can help maintain your coverage and avoid claim denials.

Coverage Cessation

Coverage cessation occurs when your insurance policy is no longer in effect due to non-payment. This leaves you vulnerable to financial losses from fires or other disasters. If your policy has ceased, you cannot file a claim for any incidents that occur after the coverage ends.

Fact: According to Investopedia, knowing your policy details can help you avoid coverage cessation. Always review your policy to understand payment terms and conditions.

In summary, keeping up with your premium payments is crucial to maintaining continuous coverage. By doing so, you ensure that your insurance policy is active and ready to support you in the event of a fire.

5. Misrepresentation

Misrepresentation is a significant reason insurance companies deny fire claims. It involves providing false information during the application process, which can lead to claim denial.

False Information

When applying for fire insurance, accuracy is crucial. If you provide incorrect details about your property or personal history, it can be considered misrepresentation. This might include lying about previous fire incidents, the condition of your home, or even your smoking habits.

Example: Suppose you claim that your home has a state-of-the-art fire alarm system when it doesn’t. If a fire occurs, and the insurer finds out the truth, your claim might be denied due to the false information provided.

Application Process

The application process is your opportunity to be transparent with your insurer. Any inaccuracies, whether intentional or accidental, can come back to haunt you. Insurers rely on the information you provide to assess risk and determine premiums.

Tip: Double-check all details before submitting your insurance application. Ensure everything is accurate and up-to-date to avoid potential issues later on.

Claim Denial

Misrepresentation can lead to claim denial because it breaches the trust between you and your insurer. If discrepancies are found, the company may reject your claim, leaving you with the financial burden of the fire damage.

Fact: According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, honesty in your insurance application is vital. Misrepresentation not only risks claim denial but can also lead to policy cancellation.

In short, being truthful and precise in your insurance application is essential. This helps prevent misrepresentation issues and ensures your fire claims are processed smoothly.

6. Late Claim Submission

Timely Reporting

Submitting a fire insurance claim promptly is crucial. Insurance companies often have strict deadlines for when a claim must be filed after a fire incident. Missing these deadlines is one of the common reasons insurance companies deny fire claims.

Specific Timeframes

Each insurance policy outlines specific timeframes for filing claims. These can vary, but many policies require notification within a few days to a couple of weeks after the fire. It’s essential to know these timeframes. Check your policy or ask your insurer to be sure.

Prompt Notification

Once a fire occurs, notify your insurer immediately. Quick reporting not only meets policy requirements but also facilitates a smoother claims process. Delayed reporting can lead to complications and even denial of your claim.

Example: Imagine a fire damages your home, but you wait a month before informing your insurance company. This delay might result in your claim being denied because you didn’t follow the specified timeline.

Tip: As soon as it’s safe, contact your insurance company to report the fire. This initial step is vital in ensuring your claim is considered.

Fact: According to the Insurance Information Institute, prompt notification can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. It allows the insurer to begin their investigation while the evidence is fresh.

In summary, understanding and adhering to your policy’s reporting deadlines is essential to avoid claim denial. Quick action helps ensure your fire insurance claim is processed without unnecessary problems.

7. Suspicion of Arson

Intentional Fire-Setting

One of the most serious reasons insurance companies deny fire claims is the suspicion of arson. If there’s any indication that the fire was intentionally set, insurers will pause the claims process to investigate. This is to prevent insurance fraud, where someone might set a fire on purpose to collect insurance money.

Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud is a significant concern for companies. If an insurer suspects that a fire was deliberately started, they will conduct a thorough investigation. This can include examining the fire scene, reviewing financial records, and interviewing witnesses. For example, if someone is facing financial difficulties, an insurer might investigate to see if the fire was set to claim insurance money as a way out.

Investigation Cooperation

If you’re a policyholder and your fire claim is under investigation for arson, it’s crucial to cooperate fully with the insurance company. Provide any requested documents, answer questions honestly, and allow access to the property for inspection. Cooperation can demonstrate your innocence and help resolve the suspicion more quickly.

Case Study: In one instance, a homeowner’s claim was initially denied due to arson suspicion. However, by cooperating with the investigation and providing alibis and financial records, the homeowner was able to clear their name and eventually receive the claim payout.

Tip: Always be transparent and honest with your insurer. If you have nothing to hide, cooperating with the investigation can help clear up any misunderstandings.

In conclusion, suspicion of arson is a serious matter that can lead to a denied claim. However, by understanding the process and cooperating with investigations, policyholders can steer these challenging situations more effectively.

8. Insurance Fraud

Exaggerated Damages

Insurance fraud is a critical issue when it comes to reasons insurance companies deny fire claims. One common form of fraud is exaggerating the extent of the damages. For instance, a homeowner might claim that more items were destroyed in the fire than actually were, or inflate the value of damaged property. This misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences, including the denial of the entire claim.

False Claims

Submitting false claims is another fraudulent practice that insurers watch out for. This occurs when a policyholder claims for items that were never damaged or lost in the fire. For example, if someone claims for a high-end TV that was not even in the house at the time of the fire, the insurer is likely to deny the claim. Insurers have investigative teams that can verify such details, so honesty is always the best policy.

Legal Consequences

Engaging in insurance fraud is not only unethical but also illegal. Those caught making false claims or exaggerating damages can face severe legal consequences. This can include policy cancellation, fines, and even criminal charges. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, insurance fraud costs billions of dollars annually, leading to higher premiums for everyone.

Real-Life Example: In a notable case, a homeowner claimed that an entire collection of vintage wines was destroyed in a fire. Upon investigation, it was found that the wines were stored in a different location and were untouched by the fire. The claim was not only denied, but the homeowner faced charges for attempting to defraud the insurance company.

Tip: Always provide accurate and truthful information in your claim. If you’re unsure about the value of damaged items, consider getting a professional appraisal to avoid any unintentional misrepresentation.

Understanding the serious implications of insurance fraud can help policyholders avoid these pitfalls and ensure a smoother claims process.

9. Property Value Dispute

Valuation Disagreements

One of the reasons insurance companies deny fire claims is due to disagreements over property valuation. Imagine a scenario where a homeowner claims their property was worth $500,000 before the fire, but the insurer values it at $300,000. This kind of dispute can lead to claim denial or reduced payouts.

Accurate Records

To avoid valuation disputes, it’s crucial to maintain accurate records of your property’s value. Keep receipts, appraisals, and other documentation that show the worth of your home and its contents. This evidence can be invaluable if you need to prove your claim’s validity.

Professional Appraisal

Consider getting a professional appraisal of your property. This can provide an unbiased, professional opinion on its value. An appraisal is especially helpful if you suspect your insurer might undervalue your property. According to the National Association of Realtors, obtaining a professional appraisal can serve as a strong piece of evidence during a dispute.

Real-Life Example: A homeowner in Florida faced a significant property value dispute after a fire. They had previously obtained a professional appraisal, which helped them successfully negotiate a fair settlement with their insurance company. Without that appraisal, they might have received much less than their property’s true value.

Tip: Regularly update your property records and consider a new appraisal if you’ve made significant improvements or if the real estate market has changed.

Understanding the importance of accurate property valuation can prevent disputes and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

10. Pre-Existing Damage

Prior Damage

One common reason insurance companies deny fire claims is due to pre-existing damage. If your property had damage before the fire occurred, insurers might argue that the fire wasn’t the sole cause of the loss. For example, if a roof already had leaks, and a fire caused further damage, the insurer might only cover the new damage, not the pre-existing issues.

Ongoing Neglect

Insurers often deny claims if they believe damage resulted from ongoing neglect. This means if you haven’t maintained your property properly, any fire-related damage could be seen as partly your fault. For instance, not fixing faulty wiring can be considered neglect, and if it leads to a fire, your claim might be denied.

Unrelated Damage

Sometimes, insurers may claim that the damage you’re reporting isn’t related to the fire incident at all. It’s important to clearly document and differentiate between fire-related damage and any other existing issues. Taking photos and videos before and after the incident can help support your case.

Real-Life Example: A homeowner in Hollywood, FL, faced a denied claim because the insurance company argued that water damage from a previous storm contributed to the fire damage. However, the homeowner had documented repairs from the storm, proving the fire was the sole cause of the new damage. This evidence helped overturn the denial.

Tip: Regularly inspect and maintain your property. Keep records of any repairs and upgrades to show that your home was in good condition before the fire. This documentation can be crucial if your claim is questioned.

By understanding these aspects of pre-existing damage, you can better prepare and protect your claim from being unfairly denied.

11. Lack of Evidence or Documentation

Proof of Damage

One of the key reasons insurance companies deny fire claims is the lack of solid evidence. Without proof, it becomes challenging to convince insurers of the extent of your loss. To avoid this, always document the damage thoroughly.

Photographs and Videos

Taking clear and detailed photographs or videos of the damaged areas is essential. Capture images from multiple angles and include close-ups of specific items or areas that have been affected. This visual evidence is crucial in supporting your claim and demonstrating the true extent of the damage.

Repair Invoices

Keep all repair invoices and receipts related to the fire damage. These documents serve as proof of the costs incurred for repairs and replacements. They help establish the financial impact of the damage and provide a basis for the compensation you seek.

Pro Tip: After a fire, create a dedicated folder (physical or digital) to store all related documents, photos, and videos. This organized approach ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips when dealing with your insurance company.

Real-Life Example: A property owner in Fort Myers, FL, faced a denied claim because the insurance company claimed there was no proof of the damage. However, the owner had taken comprehensive photos and kept all repair invoices, which ultimately led to the claim being approved upon review.

By ensuring you have the necessary evidence and documentation, you can significantly strengthen your fire insurance claim and reduce the chances of denial.

12. Bad Faith Denials: What to Watch Out For

When dealing with fire insurance claims, one of the most frustrating experiences is encountering a bad faith denial. This happens when insurance companies don’t act fairly or honestly. Let’s break down the common tactics insurers might use:

Unreasonable Delays

Imagine waiting for months without any updates on your claim. Unreasonable delays are a red flag. Insurance companies are supposed to process claims promptly, but sometimes they stall without a valid reason. This can leave you feeling stuck and helpless.

Inadequate Investigations

Some insurers might conduct inadequate investigations. This means they quickly glance over the details without a thorough check. A rushed or biased investigation can lead to an unfair denial of your claim. Always ensure that the investigation is complete and unbiased.

Lowball Offers

Have you ever received a settlement offer that seemed way too low? Lowball offers are common. Insurers might hope you’ll accept less than what you’re entitled to. It’s essential to know the actual value of your damages and negotiate if needed.

Misrepresentation

Misinterpretation of policy terms can occur. Misrepresentation involves the insurer providing misleading information to avoid paying your claim. Always double-check the terms of your policy and seek clarification if something seems off.

Unfounded Denials

Sometimes, claims are denied without a clear reason. These unfounded denials can be frustrating and confusing. If you receive a denial, request a detailed explanation and challenge it if the reasoning isn’t valid.

Retaliation

If you’ve filed claims before, insurers might retaliate by denying new claims unfairly. This retaliation is unethical and should not be tolerated. Keep track of your claims history and ensure that each claim is treated independently.

Failure to Communicate

Lack of communication from your insurer can be a sign of bad faith. When there’s a failure to communicate, it might mean they’re avoiding the obligation to handle your claim properly. Regularly follow up and document all interactions to protect your rights.

If you find yourself facing any of these tactics, it might be time to consult a property damage lawyer. They can help you steer the complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How to Prevent Your Fire Insurance Claim from Being Denied

Preventing a fire insurance claim from being denied starts with proactive steps. Let’s explore how you can safeguard your claim:

Review Your Policy

First, review your insurance policy thoroughly. Understand what is covered, what is excluded, and any limits that apply. Knowing these details can help you avoid surprises when filing a claim. Pay attention to specific fire types that might not be covered.

Regular Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance on your property. This includes keeping smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems in working order. Regular inspections show that you are diligent about fire prevention, which supports your claim.

Comply with Regulations

Ensure your property complies with local fire safety regulations and building codes. Non-compliance can lead to claim denials. Regularly check for updates to these regulations to stay compliant.

Timely Premium Payments

Make sure you pay your insurance premiums on time. Late payments can cause your policy to lapse, leaving you without coverage when you need it most.

Provide Accurate Information

When applying for insurance, provide accurate and complete information. Misrepresentation can lead to a denial if the insurer finds discrepancies in the details you provided.

Prompt Reporting

Report any fire-related incidents to your insurer promptly. Most policies have specific timeframes for reporting claims. Delays can result in denial, so act quickly.

Document Damage

After a fire, document the damage thoroughly. Take photos and videos of all affected areas and personal belongings. This documentation is crucial for supporting your claim.

Mitigate Further Loss

Take steps to mitigate further damage after a fire. This might include removing flammable items or turning off faulty appliances. Doing so shows that you are taking responsibility to prevent additional losses.

Cooperate with Investigators

If your insurer conducts an investigation, cooperate fully. Provide any requested information and be transparent about the incident. Cooperation can expedite the claims process and demonstrate your honesty.

Maintain Communication

Keep an open line of communication with your insurance company. Respond to inquiries promptly and provide any additional documentation they request. Clear communication helps keep the claims process moving smoothly.

By following these steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of your fire insurance claim being denied. Next, we’ll explore what to do if your claim is denied despite these precautions.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

Even with all precautions, sometimes fire insurance claims get denied. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you steer the process:

Review the Denial Letter

Start by reviewing the denial letter from your insurance company. This letter will outline the reasons for the denial. Understanding these reasons is crucial for determining your next steps.

Contact Your Insurer

Next, contact your insurer for clarification. Ask for a detailed explanation of the denial and any questions you might have. This helps you understand if the denial is valid or if there might be a misunderstanding.

Gather Evidence

Gather all relevant evidence related to your claim. This includes your insurance policy, photos of the damage, and any inspection reports. Keep these documents organized for easy reference.

Consult an Attorney

Consider consulting a property damage attorney. An attorney can assess your situation and guide you on the best course of action. They can help you understand your rights and evaluate the strength of your case.

File an Appeal

If you believe the denial is unjust, you have the right to file an appeal. Follow the appeal process outlined in your policy. Include all supporting documents and a clear explanation of why you believe the denial is incorrect.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurer. Note the dates, times, and names of representatives you speak with. This documentation can be crucial if you need to escalate your claim.

Obtain Repair Estimates

Request detailed repair estimates from licensed contractors. These estimates help demonstrate the extent of the damage and the costs involved. They can support your case during negotiations or appeals.

Seek Mediation

Some policies offer mediation as a way to resolve disputes. If available, consider using this option to reach a fair settlement without going to court.

File a Complaint

If your insurer continues to deny your claim unfairly, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance department. They will review your case and provide an independent decision.

If all else fails, you may need to take legal action against your insurance company. Your attorney can guide you through this process and ensure your rights are protected.

Facing a denied fire insurance claim can be daunting, but with these steps, you can work towards a resolution. Next, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about reasons insurance companies deny fire claims.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reasons Insurance Companies Deny Fire Claims

Why would a fire claim be denied?

Fire claims can be denied for several reasons. One major reason is arson or intentional fire-setting. If the insurance company suspects that the fire was set intentionally, they may deny the claim until a thorough investigation is completed. This is to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure the fire was not caused by the policyholder or someone associated with them.

Another reason for denial is non-accidental events. If the fire resulted from an event that was not accidental, such as a deliberate act of vandalism, the claim might be denied.

Why would home insurance not cover fire?

Home insurance might not cover fire damage if there is a policy lapse. This happens when policyholders fail to pay their premiums on time, leading to a lapse in coverage. Without active insurance, any claims made during this period can be denied.

Insufficient coverage is another common reason. If the policy does not provide adequate coverage for fire-related damages or specifically excludes certain types of fire damage, the claim will not be covered. It’s crucial for homeowners to review their policies and ensure they have comprehensive fire coverage.

Why would my insurance claim be denied?

Insurance claims can be denied due to incomplete information. When applying for insurance, it’s important to provide accurate and complete details. Failure to do so can result in denial of the claim.

Additionally, if the service is not covered under the policy, the claim will be denied. Each insurance policy has specific inclusions and exclusions, and understanding these is key to ensuring coverage.

Lastly, late filing of a claim can lead to denial. Insurance policies often have specific deadlines for submitting claims after an incident. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in the claim being denied, as timely reporting is essential for processing claims efficiently.

Understanding these reasons can help you take proactive steps to prevent your fire insurance claim from being denied.

Contact EC Law Counsel’s Fire Damage Attorneys For Help Getting Your Insurance Payouts

When facing the aftermath of a fire, dealing with insurance claim denials can add to the stress and confusion. That’s where the EC Law Counsel comes in. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of fire insurance claims, they provide the legal support you need to steer these challenges.

EC Law Counsel’s team has a unique advantage: their background as former insurance adjusters and underwriters. This experience allows them to effectively counteract delays and secure the settlements you deserve. They know how insurance companies operate and use this knowledge to your benefit.

If your fire insurance claim has been denied, EC Law Counsel can assist you in several ways:

  • Reviewing your policy to ensure you understand your coverage and rights.
  • Gathering evidence to support your claim, including photographs and repair estimates.
  • Communicating with your insurer to address any issues and seek a resolution.
  • Filing an appeal if necessary, to challenge the denial and work towards a fair settlement.

Don’t face the insurance companies alone. Let EC Law Counsel be your advocate, ensuring you receive the compensation you need to rebuild and recover. For more information on how they can assist with your fire damage claim, visit their fire damage lawyer service page.

In the complex world of insurance claims, having a knowledgeable ally like EC Law Counsel can make all the difference. They are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you move forward after a fire.