If your business or home has just been struck by a fire, then it’s easy to feel lost. We truly understand the shock you may feel. Not to mention the smoke, the smell - it all hits at once. But you’re not alone. We help people every day to rebuild, recover, and move forward.
We’re here and ready when you are - in the meantime, please give this guide a quick read; it will help you understand the next best steps and, when you’re ready, get in touch.
Before you do anything else, make sure that you and everyone else are safe.
The key thing to remember is: things can be replaced, but you and your family can't.
You must inform your insurer of the fire as soon as possible. Remember that you don’t have to navigate that process alone.
We act only for people like you, the policyholders, never for the insurers, and we make sure your claim is handled fairly, fully, and fast. If you’d like to know more about who acts on whose behalf, and why, please watch our quick video on the difference between a loss adjuster (who works for the insurance company) and a loss assessor (a company like us, Harris Balcombe).
Once your property is safe, it’s time to prevent further damage or theft.
These first images and videos can be invaluable when making your claim.
It’s important to know that damaged items can be crucial evidence in your claim.
It’s essential to start a simple log of what’s happened and who you’ve spoken to.
We know that dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be a stressful time, so we want you to know that you do not have to handle this alone. Our experts have decades of experience dealing with fire claims, from home incidents to large commercial losses.
We’re here to help, guide you, protect your position, and help you get your life or business back on track.
Harris Balcombe has got your back.
If you’ve been affected by fire damage, please pick up the phone and speak to one of our expert loss assessors today on our 24/7 helpline - 03300 229179 - or email us at info@harrisbalcombe.com, or simply start your claim now.
At this point, you would hope that your insurance company is there to help but unfortunately, this is not always the case. We have known families who have felt intimidated by insurers and have been treated as though they have done something wrong, or are in some way to blame for their situation.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
This is to compare your version of events against your policy coverage and timelines.
Smart answer
Always stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or emotional exaggeration.
With a loss assessor
A loss assessor will help you structure your account clearly so you don’t over- or under-share.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They’re basically verifying if the event falls within your coverage period.
Smart answer
Be as specific as possible with the date and time.
Avoid
'I think it was last week sometime...'
Tip
A loss assessor will ensure that this matches other documentation, like alarm logs or photos.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to confirm the circumstances and establish liability or negligence.
Smart answer
Answer honestly and clearly, and mention if others were present.
Tip
If others witnessed the event, a loss assessor may advise collecting statements from them to bolster your claim.
How to respond to a Loss Adjuster
Why they ask
They want to validate the items you’re claiming for.
Smart answer
Where possible, provide receipts, invoices, photos or warranty documents.
No receipts?
No stress, a loss assessor may be able to help you establish the value using alternative methods.
Hassle free, no obligations is how we operate. So if you’d like to speak to us call our 24/7 Helpline on 03300229179 or email us at info@harrisbalcombe.com. Or simply click the button below ...