Fire, Smoke & Holiday Hazards: Fire Damage Claim in FL
Florida’s Holiday Season Is Also Fire Season- Are You Prepared to File a Claim?
From candles to Christmas lights, turkey fryers to space heaters, the holidays bring warmth, joy, and increased fire risk. For many Florida homeowners, the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s are also the most dangerous when it comes to house fires.
If your home suffers from smoke or fire damage this season, how you file your insurance claim can significantly impact what you recover. A single misstep can mean the difference between full coverage and a costly out-of-pocket loss.
In this article, we’ll explain how to document, file, and support a fire damage claim in FL—and why working with a public adjuster can help protect your holiday investment.
Top Holiday Fire Risks in Florida Homes
Florida may not have snow, but seasonal fire hazards remain a serious concern, especially amid the influx of decorations, gatherings, and electrical overloads. Common causes of holiday fires include:
- Overloaded extension cords and power strips
- Unattended candles or fireplaces
- Dry Christmas trees igniting from faulty lights
- Kitchen grease fires during large family meals
- Space heaters placed too close to furniture or drapes
- Fireworks accidents on New Year’s Eve
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are three of the top five days for home fires each year.
What Does a Fire Damage Claim Cover?
If you carry a standard homeowner’s insurance policy in Florida, it should include coverage for:
- Structural fire damage (walls, ceilings, roof, flooring)
- Smoke damage throughout the home
- Personal belongings and contents (furniture, clothing, electronics)
- Temporary housing or living expenses during repairs
- Fire department charges, if applicable
However, the key to getting the full value of your fire damage claim in FL is documentation, especially during the hectic holiday season.
Step-by-Step: Filing a Fire Damage Claim in Florida
1. Ensure Safety First
Before doing anything else, make sure everyone is safe and the fire is fully extinguished. Call 911 immediately if the fire is active or smoke is present. Don’t re-enter the home until cleared by the fire department.
2. Notify Your Insurance Carrier Immediately
Contact your insurance company as soon as it’s safe to do so. They will log your fire damage claim and provide an initial claim number. Ask them to send a copy of your full policy or declarations page for reference.
3. Document Everything
Take photos and video of:
- The affected areas (rooms, structure, exterior)
- Soot or smoke damage in vents, walls, ceilings, or upholstery
- Burned or heat-damaged contents
- Any fire suppression effort damage (water, chemicals)
Create an inventory list of damaged or destroyed personal items, including approximate value and purchase date. If possible, locate receipts or serial numbers.
4. Prevent Further Damage
Most insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further loss. That may include:
- Boarding up broken windows
- Tarping holes in the roof
- Turning off utilities if necessary
- Removing waterlogged items to prevent mold
Document all efforts and save receipts. You may be reimbursed for these temporary repairs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Fire Damage Claim
Many homeowners in Florida unknowingly weaken their claims by:
- Tossing damaged items before photographing them
- Cleaning up smoke damage before inspection
- Assuming all damage is visible
- Letting the insurance company’s adjuster take the lead
- Accepting the first offer without question
Insurance companies may send adjusters who undervalue contents, miss hidden smoke damage, or overlook HVAC and electrical impacts. That’s where having your own expert can make a big difference.
Why a Public Adjuster Can Help Maximize a Fire Damage Claim in FL
Unlike the adjuster assigned by your insurance company, a public adjuster works exclusively for you. Their job is to ensure you receive the full value of your loss, both structural and personal property.
A public adjuster can:
- Conduct a full inspection of fire and smoke damage
- Create a detailed contents inventory with real-world valuations
- Identify hidden damage, like insulation or electrical issues
- Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf
- File supplemental claims for damage discovered later
Because most public adjusters in Florida work on a contingency basis, they only get paid if you do, and are motivated to recover the maximum payout.
Does Florida Have Any Special Rules for Fire Claims?
Yes. Florida law requires insurance companies to acknowledge your claim within 14 calendar days and to begin the investigation within a reasonable time. They must also pay or deny your claim within 90 days of receipt, provided you meet all filing and documentation requirements.
If you believe your claim is being delayed, underpaid, or ignored, you have the right to escalate or reopen it with additional support from a public adjuster.
Smoke Damage Is Just as Serious—But Often Overlooked
Even if the fire is quickly contained, smoke and soot can spread throughout your home. This includes:
- HVAC systems that circulate smoke
- Discoloration of walls and ceilings
- Lingering odors in furniture and fabric
- Corrosion of appliances and electronics
These types of damage are often downplayed or missed during the initial inspection. A seasoned public adjuster will ensure that they are thoroughly documented and included in your fire damage claim in FL.
What If the Fire Was Caused by a Guest or Holiday Accident?
Many Florida homeowners wonder: “Will my policy still cover a fire if it was caused by someone else?”
The answer is usually yes.
Most homeowner policies cover accidental fires, regardless of who caused them—unless the fire was set intentionally by someone living in the home. If a guest knocks over a candle or improperly uses a fryer, you should still be eligible for coverage.
However, the complexity of the situation can affect how the claim is handled. A public adjuster can help you navigate liability and clarify what your policy does and does not cover.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Holidays Become a Financial Disaster
House fires and smoke damage are devastating, especially when they interrupt family gatherings and seasonal celebrations. But with the right support and strategy, you can file a strong, well-documented claim and begin the path to full recovery.
The key is to act quickly, document thoroughly, and avoid settling for less than your damage is worth.
Need Help With a Fire Damage Claim in FL?
If your home has been affected by fire or smoke this season, don’t go it alone.
Right Way Public Adjusting helps homeowners across Tampa Bay file, reopen, and supplement fire damage claims in FL. We handle the inspections, documentation, and negotiations so you can focus on putting your life back together.
Call (877) 744-8929
We serve Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding areas with fast, professional support—especially during the holiday season.
With years of experience in the insurance industry and a deep understanding of policy intricacies, Hunter is dedicated to providing a personalized approach to each client’s unique situation. With a passion for advocating on behalf of policyholders, he established Right Way Public Adjusting to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing property damage challenges.
