A house fire can turn your life upside down in minutes. Once the flames are out and your family is safe, the next challenge begins—working with your insurance company. Dealing with insurance adjusters during fire damage restoration in Brunswick can be as stressful as the fire. Knowing how to navigate this process can speed up your recovery, reduce costs, and help you get the full value of your claim.

This short guide covers the key things to understand about insurance adjusters, your rights as a homeowner, and how to make sure your restoration process stays on track.

Understanding the Role of Insurance Adjusters | Fire Damage Restoration in Brunswick

Your insurance company hires insurance adjusters to assess the extent of the property damage. Their job is to inspect the damage, participate in determining the cause of the fire, and estimate how much the insurer should pay out. While most adjusters are professional and fair, it’s important to remember that they ultimately represent the insurance company—not you.

After fire damage restoration begins, you’ll likely be assigned an adjuster within a few days. They’ll conduct a walkthrough of your property, take photos, and ask questions about the incident. You should also take your pictures and document any communication with the adjuster. Keep a written log of all repairs, expenses, and contractor estimates.

Don’t Accept the First Offer Without Review

It’s common for the initial settlement offer to be lower than expected. Some adjusters may overlook hidden damage or undervalue personal belongings. Before signing anything, compare the adjuster’s estimate with quotes from your fire damage restoration company. These professionals often uncover damage missed during a quick inspection—especially structural issues or smoke infiltration.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate if there’s a big difference between the insurance estimate and your contractor’s. You can also request a second evaluation or hire a public adjuster who works for you rather than the insurance company.

Choose Your Own Restoration Company | Fire Damage Restoration in Brunswick

After a fire, some insurers will recommend contractors or restoration companies. While this might seem helpful, you should not act on their suggestions. You have the legal right to choose any experienced provider for fire damage restoration.

Hiring your trusted restoration company ensures your home is restored to a high standard—not just the minimum covered by insurance. Look for a provider with experience in fire damage, mold prevention, and smoke remediation. They should also be willing to work directly with your insurance adjuster to justify necessary repairs.

Keep Detailed Records

Throughout the process, keep receipts for temporary housing, meals, clothing, cleaning supplies, and restoration costs. These expenses may be reimbursable under your homeowner’s policy. Also, save copies of all communication with your insurance company, especially emails and letters with timelines or approval details.

Proper documentation can speed up your claim and protect you in case of disputes or delays. Your fire damage restoration contractor can also provide itemized repair logs, photo evidence, and moisture readings that support your case.

Schedule Regular Progress Inspections

As the restoration work progresses, your insurance company may send the adjuster back to verify that the project follows the plan and budget. Be present during these inspections if possible. Ask questions and clarify what’s being approved, delayed, or denied.

This step is critical for large claims involving major structural repairs or full-room rebuilds. If you see signs of hidden damage—such as warping, discoloration, or smoke odors—immediately bring it to the adjuster’s attention. Your fire damage restoration team should also inform you of any surprises they find behind walls or under floors.

Why a Home Safety Audit Is Essential

After restoration is complete and your insurance claim is closed, a home safety audit is one of the best things you can do to protect your home moving forward. Fires can leave long-term vulnerabilities—faulty wiring, weak insulation, or ventilation problems—that aren’t always addressed in the restoration phase.

A home safety audit evaluates your entire space to identify lingering risks. It includes checking smoke alarms, evaluating escape routes, inspecting electrical systems, and verifying that fire-resistant materials were used where possible. This step gives you peace of mind and helps prevent future damage.

Work with a Professional Company for Fire Damage Restoration in Brunswick

Premier Restoration Services is your trusted partner in recovery. From the first emergency call to the final inspection, our certified professionals handle everything—damage assessment, smoke and soot removal, structural repairs, and assistance with your insurance claim. We know how to work with insurance adjusters, advocate for necessary repairs, and ensure no corner is cut during restoration.

Our goal is simple: to restore your property to pre-loss condition with minimal disruption and complete transparency. Contact us today.