Arizona Fire Damage Attorneys

Arizona Fire Damage

Fire can be a devastating force, destroying not only your home but also the cherished memories associated with it. When facing the threat of a fire in your Arizona home, it’s important to be prepared for potential property loss, including furniture and family portraits. Fortunately, there are lawyers who specialize in fire damage cases and can provide the necessary expertise to navigate through the legal process.

Losing a home to fire is an overwhelming experience, but having an attorney by your side can make a significant difference. At Avian Law Group, we understand the emotional impact of a fire and are committed to supporting you throughout your fire damage claim. We will guide you through each step, making the process easier for you and your family.

Different Kinds of Fire Damage Cases

Fire damage lawyers and property damage attorneys can assist with “whole-home fires,” which involve fires that affect the entire structure of your home, often resulting in significant structural damage. These fires can occur when a fire cannot be extinguished or is left unattended.

“Partial-home fires” refer to fires that damage specific areas of a home, such as a kitchen fire that spreads flames onto the carpet and walls. Common causes of these fires include unattended cooking, defective heating appliances/tools, or even arson. Regardless of the cause, a fire insurance claims attorney can help you recover from your losses and regain stability.

What Will My Homeowner’s Insurance Cover?

Wildfires, such as bushfires, forest fires, brush fires, or vegetation fires, are rapid-spreading wildland fires that primarily consume dry forests or woodlands. They are prevalent in Arizona, especially during hot weather and strong winds.

Fortunately, most homeowner’s insurance policies in Arizona cover wildfires. While there may still be out-of-pocket expenses for policyholders, legitimate and reputable insurance providers bear the brunt of the cost.

How Much Wildfire Damage Does a Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Cover?

An average homeowner’s policy in Arizona typically covers the structure of your home and related personal possessions up to an agreed value. This value is usually determined by the amount you paid for your home.

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage includes the building itself, such as the floors, walls, and ceilings, but does not include furniture, fixtures, or appliances. The coverage focuses on the loss of the structure rather than its furnishings. The available amount for dwelling coverage is predetermined based on your home’s replacement value.

Coverage For Detached Structures

This coverage applies to detached structures like garages or sheds. Although not always required, it is recommended to have this coverage. The amount available for this coverage is determined by your home’s replacement value and your policy’s limits.

Possessions 

This coverage extends to your personal possessions within your home, lanai (commonly referred to as a “backyard”), and garage. It may include items like pets, firearms, and other belongings. Typically, home furnishings like sofas and drapes are covered, as well as personal items like jewelry, cameras, and valuables. However, possessions and jewelry, including wedding rings, should be insured separately in your homeowner’s policy.

Personal Liability Coverage

Personal liability coverage covers legal costs incurred by the insured in cases where they are sued for bodily injury or property damage caused by negligence, even if no one was injured.

Medical Payments to Others

This optional coverage pays for medical expenses incurred by someone else for whom you are held liable due to bodily injury.

Additional Living Expenses

This coverage covers the cost of living in a temporary dwelling if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss. The amount available for this expense is predetermined in your policy.

Lawns, Plants, Trees, and Shrubs

This coverage pays for repairing or replacing damaged trees, shrubs, and plants resulting from a covered loss. The specific amount available for this expense is determined by your policy.

Condo Insurance

In Arizona, condo insurance policies typically cover only the damage to the interior walls of a condo. Coverage does not extend to the common areas of the building or any other units or structures.

Interior Walls Coverage

This type of coverage pays for damage to the interior walls of a condo unit but does not include common areas or other units or structures.

Personal Property Condo Coverage

This coverage includes the cost of replacing personal possessions like clothes, furniture, household items, jewelry, collectibles, and electronics.

Loss of Use

This coverage pays for additional living expenses incurred if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss. It may also cover the loss of time and productivity during your stay in a temporary dwelling.

What To Do If Fire Damages Your Home or Business

1. Evaluate Losses

Before contacting your insurer, evaluate the extent of the damage and take photographs as evidence. Your compensation will be subject to the terms and conditions of your policy.

2. Carry the Right Insurance

Your home and business are valuable assets. Ensure that your insurance policy adequately covers both the structure and contents of your property. Depending on your situation, additional insurance may be necessary to replace lost or damaged belongings. It’s essential to have coverage for both “acts of God” and arson. A fire damage lawyer can assess your coverage and provide appropriate guidance.

3. Carefully go through Reviews

Ensure you choose a reputable insurance company by conducting thorough research. It’s crucial to evaluate the company’s reliability and reputation to ensure you are dealing with the right insurer.

4. Pursue the Compensation you Deserve

Ensure you choose a reputable insurance company by conducting thorough research. It’s crucial to evaluate the company’s reliability and reputation to ensure you are dealing with the right insurer.

Arson Case vs. a Case of Negligence

Arson cases involve criminal acts, and the offender may be asked to provide compensation. On the other hand, cases of negligence involve civil claims, allowing you to seek compensation from the party responsible for your losses. In cases of wrongful death, significant compensation may be awarded.

An experienced fire damage lawyer can guide you through your case, helping you negotiate with the responsible party or their insurer. Arizona law may impose limitations on the amount you can recover, emphasizing the importance of seeking help from a competent lawyer.

Reach Out to Avian Law Group for Help with Your Claim

While many lawyers in Arizona can offer advice and representation for fire damage claims, not all possess comprehensive knowledge of fire damage laws.

Why Choose Avian Law Group?

With our team of highly experienced fire damage lawyers, we bring a wealth of knowledge in handling cases involving arson and negligence. Your claim will be treated with the utmost care and attention it deserves as we strive for a favorable resolution and pursue the maximum compensation for your losses. Take the first step towards justice by contacting us today for a complimentary case evaluation.