When a fire damages your home, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Between temporary housing, smoke damage, and dealing with your insurance company, it’s hard to know where to begin. But this is also the moment your insurance company should step up, not step back.
Unfortunately, many Washington homeowners face delays, lowball offers, or even outright denials when filing a fire-related insurance claim. At Bastion Law, we’ve helped homeowners across the state hold insurers accountable, especially when they fail to meet their legal obligations.
Here’s what you need to know to protect your rights after a fire.
1. Start With Documentation Before the Adjuster Arrives
Insurance companies rely heavily on your evidence. You should, too.
Start immediately:
- Take photos or video of all damaged areas, inside and out.
- Save receipts for temporary lodging, clothing, meals, or emergency repairs.
- Create a detailed list of damaged personal belongings, including estimated values.
If it’s safe, walk through the home with your phone’s video camera. This can serve as important evidence later.
2. Request a Full Copy of Your Insurance Policy
Your policy is your contract with the insurance company. Insist on a complete, unedited copy that includes all endorsements and exclusions. Look specifically for language related to:
- Fire damage
- Additional living expenses (ALE)
- Personal property loss
- Debris removal or temporary repairs
If your insurer won’t provide your full policy or delays access, that’s a red flag.
3. Watch for Signs of Bad Faith
In Washington, insurance companies are legally required to act in good faith. That includes conducting fair investigations, communicating clearly, and making timely payments. If they don’t, you may have a claim for bad faith.
Common warning signs include:
- Unexplained delays in inspection or payment
- Repeated requests for documents you’ve already provided
- Denials without clear explanations or citing vague policy language
- Blaming damage on “wear and tear” or “pre-existing conditions”
- Pressuring you to accept a quick, low settlement
4. Know Your Legal Rights in Washington
If your claim is delayed, underpaid, or denied without proper cause, you may have legal recourse under Washington law. Relevant laws include:
- The Insurance Fair Conduct Act (IFCA)
- The Consumer Protection Act (CPA)
- Contractual protections in your policy
At Bastion Law, we pursue full compensation for our clients—and additional damages when insurers act in bad faith.
How Bastion Law Can Help
If your insurance company isn’t responding, keeps changing its story, or offers a settlement that doesn’t come close to covering your losses, we’re here to help.
We will:
- Review your policy
- Investigate how your claim was handled
- Push for a full and fair recovery
- Take your case to trial if necessary
There are no upfront fees, and we don’t get paid unless you do.
Was Your Fire Damage Claim Delayed or Denied?
Contact Bastion Law for a free consultation. We fight for homeowners across Washington who are being mistreated by their insurance companies.