Fire & Smoke Damage

Claims

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Storm Damage Claims

How It Works

After a fire, smoke, soot, and hidden damage can be overwhelming. Our licensed public adjusters handle fire and smoke damage claims, document your losses, and fight to get you a fair insurance settlement. From smoke cleanup and soot removal to HVAC decontamination and structural repairs, we make the claims process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what to expect during your fire and smoke damage claim and how to secure a full settlement.

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Safety First

Ensure safety of yourself & property.

Ensure the safety of yourself and your property. Avoid risks such as downed power lines, gas leaks, or contaminated water.

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Document the Damage

Take photos & videos.

Take photos and videos of all the affected areas. This will be helpful for your insurance claim.

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Contact Us

Call us or any other trusted Public Adjuster to get expert guidance from the getgo.

Call us or any other trusted Public Adjuster to get expert guidance from the getgo.A Public Adjuster advocates for policyholders in the event of an insurance claim. They work for you, not the insurance company. A Public Adjuster can help you settle you get the full settlement you are owed for a covered loss.

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Mitigate Damage

Make temporary repairs.

Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Keep receipts for materials and labor.

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Full-Scope Inspection and Damage Assessment

We begin with a comprehensive inspection of your property.

We begin with a comprehensive inspection of your property. Our licensed public adjusters identify not only burned areas but also:

  • Soot and smoke residue in walls and ceilings
  • Water damage from firefighting efforts
  • Contaminated HVAC systems
  • Damaged insulation, wiring, drywall, and flooring
  • Hidden structural issues behind walls or under flooring

You receive a complete, photo-documented report ready for submission to your insurer.

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Managing Your Fire Insurance Claim

Most homeowners and business owners struggle to prove the full extent of their losses—especially if the damage is cosmetic or air-quality related.

Most homeowners and business owners struggle to prove the full extent of their losses—especially if the damage is cosmetic or air-quality related. We file and manage the entire claim process, documenting every detail to avoid denials or underpayments. We advocate for compensation beyond surface repairs, including:

  • Smoke odor removal
  • HVAC and duct decontamination
  • Content cleaning or replacement
  • Mold prevention from residual water
  • Temporary relocation or loss of use
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Settlement

Receive payment and begin repairs.

Receive payment and begin repairs. Our experts negotiate directly with your insurer to secure a settlement that covers full restoration—not just patch jobs. We understand Florida insurance policies and how to fight for coverage on code upgrades, demolition, fire cleanup, and more.

Client Testimonials

At  Property Owner Advocates Public Adjusters, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled service to our clients in their time of need. Our team of experienced public adjusters works tirelessly to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your insurance claim. With a proven track record of success, our clients consistently rave about our attention to detail, communication, and dedication to their case. Read through our reviews to see why we are the trusted choice for those looking for a top-notch public adjusting firm.

Frequently Asked questions

What does a public adjuster do for homeowners in Florida?

A public adjuster represents property owners, not insurance companies, when filing insurance claims. We document property damage, prepare accurate repair estimates, and negotiate directly with insurers to secure fair settlements. In Florida, this ensures compliance with the Florida Statutes and protection against underpayment or delays.

What is the difference between a public adjuster and an insurance company adjuster?

An insurance company adjuster protects the insurer’s financial interests. A public adjuster, by law, works only for the policyholder. At Property Owner Advocates, we advocate exclusively for property owners, ensuring claims are fully documented and properly valued to maximize recovery.

When should I hire a public adjuster in Florida?

You should hire a public adjuster immediately after property damage from hurricanes, fire, plumbing leaks, or roof issues. Many times, policyholders are unaware or forget about provisions in their policy that outline their responsibilities after a loss, like immediately documenting the loss, reporting the claim in a timely manner, providing an estimate and POL to the insurance company within deadlines, etc. Early involvement helps prevent mistakes that can lead to claim delays or underpayment. We can also step in later to reopen denied or underpaid claims. Public Adjusters handle insurance claims and read policies every day, so we are better prepared to handle your claim on your behalf. It’s what we do!

Can I file and negotiate my own insurance claim without a public adjuster?

Yes, homeowners have the option to file their own claims, but insurers frequently underpay due to insufficient documentation. Public Adjusters are licensed professionals who specialize in interpreting policies, identifying and estimating damages, providing photo documentation, referencing codes, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure that all damages are fully acknowledged and compensated. This expertise often results in settlements that are significantly higher than those obtained through self-filing. In fact, 95% of the time, claimants represented by a public adjuster recover 50% to 500% more. Oh, yeah, and we only get paid if we secure a settlement for you!

Can my contractor handle my insurance claim in Florida?

No. Florida law prohibits contractors from negotiating or adjusting insurance claims on behalf of homeowners. While contractors can provide repair estimates for their work, only a licensed public adjuster is authorized to interpret policy language and negotiate settlements with your insurance company. Relying only on a contractor’s estimate can miss coverages like Additional Living Expenses, mold remediation, debris removal, and Ordinance or Law.

Public adjuster vs attorney: Who should I hire for an insurance claim in Florida?

A public adjuster specializes in estimating damages, preparing claims, and negotiating settlements, serving as the first line of defense in the claims process. They are involved from the outset, meticulously documenting the claim, compiling estimates, presenting the case, and providing ongoing support throughout, ensuring you are not alone in this journey. If a public adjuster cannot secure full payment from the insurance company but believes that the claim is still underpaid, they may recommend enlisting an attorney to pursue legal action against the insurance carrier. Many Florida homeowners opt for public adjusters initially due to lower fees and the potential for resolving claims without litigation. Should the matter escalate to litigation, the timeline with attorneys can stretch from one to five years, while public adjusters can typically facilitate claim settlements within one to six months.

How much does a public adjuster charge in Florida?

Florida law caps public adjuster fees at 10% for declared catastrophes and up to 20% for other claims. Property Owner Advocates charges contingency-based fees, meaning you pay nothing upfront, we only get paid when we secure a settlement for you. By law, Florida insurance companies must pay or deny claims within 90 days of filing. However, delays are common. A public adjuster ensures your claim is complete, deadlines are enforced, and your insurer is held accountable for timely payment.

How long do insurance companies have to settle claims in Florida?

By law, Florida insurance companies must pay or deny claims within 90 days of filing. However, delays are common. A public adjuster ensures your claim is complete, deadlines are enforced, and your insurer is held accountable for timely payment.

Can a public adjuster help if my claim is denied or underpaid?

Yes. A public adjuster can reopen and challenge denied or underpaid claims. Property Owner Advocates builds evidence with photos, estimates, and Florida Statute references to dispute insurer decisions and secure the compensation policyholders are entitled to.

Don’t Miss Out on the Compensation You Deserve

If your insurance company has underpaid you on a claim, or if you’ve been denied a claim that you think should have been paid, give us a call. We’re public adjusters who specialize in getting people the settlements they deserve. We work on a contingency basis, so you don’t have to pay us unless we win you money. Call us today for a free consultation.

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Subscribe to our Newsletter and Get Your Free Insurance Claim Guide!

 

Stay informed on the latest industry news and tips for navigating the insurance claim process. Our guide provides valuable information on how to work with a public adjuster and what to expect during the claim process. Simply fill out the form to subscribe and receive your free guide today.

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Subscribe to our Newsletter and Get Your Free Insurance Claim Guide!

 

Stay informed on the latest industry news and tips for navigating the insurance claim process. Our guide provides valuable information on how to work with a public adjuster and what to expect during the claim process. Simply fill out the form to subscribe and receive your free guide today.

Q