In the aftermath of a fire, Oklahoma business owners are often left facing not only structural damage but also lingering smoke damage that can disrupt operations for weeks or even months. While you may expect your insurance company to step up and cover your losses fully, the reality is often very different. Insurers routinely undervalue commercial fire and smoke damage claims, leaving businesses struggling to rebuild.
At Red Dirt Legal, we know how devastating this can be. Our team helps business owners hold insurance companies accountable when they try to cut corners or deny you what you’re rightfully owed.
Why Do Insurers Underpay Commercial Fire and Smoke Damage Claims?
Insurance companies make money by paying as little as possible on claims. Even when your commercial policy covers fire and smoke damage, insurers often use tactics like:
- Disputing repair estimates to justify low payouts.
- Claiming smoke damage is cosmetic and doesn’t require full remediation.
- Delaying assessments to pressure you into accepting a reduced settlement.
- Blaming pre-existing conditions to avoid covering part of the damage.
If your insurer is engaging in unreasonable delays or offers a settlement that won’t even come close to covering your losses, you don’t have to accept it without question.
Understanding the Full Scope of Fire and Smoke Damage
Fire damage isn’t always obvious. Beyond visible destruction, smoke can permeate walls, HVAC systems, inventory, and equipment. Left untreated, it can create long-term health risks for employees and customers.
Your claim should account for:
- Structural repairs to walls, ceilings, and flooring.
- Smoke remediation, including cleaning or replacing HVAC systems.
- Damaged inventory that’s unsellable due to odor or residue.
- Business interruption losses during the repair process.
Unfortunately, insurance adjusters often overlook or undervalue these issues to justify a lower payout. That’s why detailed documentation and aggressive advocacy are critical.
Steps to Protect Your Commercial Fire Claim
To strengthen your claim and fight back against an underpayment, take these steps as soon as possible:
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- Document All Damage Thoroughly
Take photos and videos of every area affected, including less obvious smoke damage. Keep detailed records of damaged inventory and equipment.
- Obtain Independent Estimates
Don’t rely solely on the insurer’s adjuster. Hire your own contractor or remediation expert to assess the true cost of repairs.
- Track Business Losses
Keep records of lost income, canceled contracts, and ongoing expenses during downtime. These are vital for a business interruption claim.
- Consult an Attorney Early
If your insurer undervalues your claim or denies key parts of it, consult an experienced insurance dispute lawyer who can evaluate your case and push back against bad-faith tactics.
Fighting a commercial fire and smoke damage claim is like going up against a giant with deep pockets and endless resources. At Red Dirt Legal, we know their playbook, and we’re not afraid to take the fight to them.
Our team:
- Reviews your policy to uncover the coverage you’re entitled to.
- Builds a detailed case using evidence, expert reports, and financial records.
- Negotiates aggressively with insurers to pursue full and fair compensation.
- Prepares to take your case to court if the company refuses to cooperate.
We’ve helped Oklahoma businesses recover from devastating losses by holding insurance companies accountable when they try to minimize or ignore their obligations.
Contact Red Dirt Legal Today
An underpaid fire or smoke damage claim can threaten the survival of your business, but you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Red Dirt Legal today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you fight back and secure the resources you need to rebuild stronger than before.
