How Montanans Can Restore Property after Wildfire Loss

We are well into the fire season, and all news eyes are on the Horse Gulch Fire.  Homes have been evacuated and owners fear the complete loss of property they have spent years to build.  This devastation can occur anywhere in Montana, such as the Deadman Fire in Southeast Montana, and every land and homeowner should prepare and know what to do in this event.

The Montana State Auditor and the Commissioner of Securities and Insurance has issued some recommendations to more easily facilitate the resurrection of your property.  And now is the time to start.

Give Your Property a Photoshoot

Right now, before any threat of disaster, tour your home with a camera and take lots of pictures and video.  According to Commissioner Troy Downing, this preparation "can speed up the claims process and ensure you are properly paid by the insurance company for losses."

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When the Damage Has Been Done

After the shock and the tears, the restoration process must begin.

First step is to call your insurance agent right away and file a claim.

Next is another photo shoot and filming, this time like it's a crime scene.  Take pictures of all the damage, outside and inside.

Do not throw out ruined items nor start any repair yet.  An insurance adjuster will need to see all this.  You can take steps to prevent further damage but leave what has happened alone until the adjuster has completed their inspection.

In the meantime, you will incur expenses as a result of the fire loss: hotel stays, food, clothing and other needs.  This is where your emergency fund of savings becomes a lifesaver!  Please keep all the receipts of money spent during this trying time.  Some costs may be reimbursed by the insurance company; those not covered may be deductible on your taxes; check with your tax preparer.

Beware the Contractor Scam!

Yes Folks, these criminals crawl out from under the rocks after a fire loss, to fraudulently steal from you.  Don't let them get their hooks into you!

Ask for the contractor's license and in-state references.  Then contact the local Homebuilders Association to look for complaints.

Get a written estimate.  Don't sign any contract until you have called the insurance agent and adjustor.

Never, ever, pay any contractor in full up-front.  Preferably not a dime.  Don't sign over the insurance settlement payment.

Questions?

You can call the Auditor's Office and CSI at 406-444-2040 if you have questions or concerns.  Their website is Fire - Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (csimt.gov).

May your home be safe and secure through this and every fire season.  You worked hard for it all.