Fire Damage Claims Attorney in Metairie, LA
If your home was damaged or destroyed by fire, we help ensure your insurance company pays what you're owed.
A house fire can turn your life upside down in a matter of minutes. After the flames are out, you're left with smoke damage, structural loss, destroyed belongings - and too often, an insurance company that won't pay fairly or quickly. At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent Metairie homeowners whose fire damage claims were denied, delayed, or underpaid. We step in to demand accountability and help you move forward with the full compensation your policy provides.
Where Fire Claims Go Wrong
01.
Claim Denials or Lowball Offers
Insurers may blame you for the fire, cite exclusions, or undervalue the damage. We push back with evidence and policy interpretation
Tip: Don't sign anything or accept a check until you understand your full rights.
If your fire claim was denied or underpaid, let's review it together.
02.
Smoke & Soot Damage Disputes
Even if flames didn't spread far, smoke and soot can ruin walls, furniture, HVAC systems, and electronics. Many insurers downplay this.
Tip: Insist on independent inspection reports if damage isn't being taken seriously.
We help ensure all your losses-not just the visible ones-are covered.
03.
Delays & Poor Communication
Insurance companies may drag out fire claims for months or give conflicting information. We force clarity, deadlines, and accountability.
Tip: Keep a written record of every conversation and document exchange.
If your insurer keeps stalling, we can step in and take over negotiations.
What's Typically Covered
Most homeowner policies cover a wide range of fire-related losses, including:
- Structural damage (walls, roof, floors)
- Smoke & soot removal
- Replacement of personal property
- Debris & hazardous material removal
- Hotel stays or temporary housing
- Rebuilding costs and code upgrades
We review your policy line by line to identify every dollar you're entitled to recover.
Who Can Be Held Liable
Primary responsibility lies with your insurer if they fail to meet the terms of your policy. However, we also evaluate third-party contractors or inspectors for potential negligence or faulty repairs related to the fire.
Fires Trigger Complex Policy Reviews
After a fire, insurers may look for reasons to deny claims - pointing to:
- Alleged arson or fraud
- Lapsed or canceled coverage
- Policy exclusions for faulty wiring or negligence
We'll assess whether your insurer is acting in bad faith and hold them to their legal obligations under Louisiana law.
Basic Elements of a Valid Fire Damage Claim
To recover compensation, we help prove:
- You held a valid homeowners policy at the time of the fire
- Your property suffered covered fire-related losses
- The insurer failed to pay or acted in bad faith
- You experienced financial harm as a result
We compile contractor estimates, expert inspections, and documentation of lost belongings to support your claim.
Damages in Fire Damage Claims
We pursue full compensation for:
- Property repair and reconstruction
- Replacement of clothes, electronics, furniture
- Temporary housing & living expenses
- Smoke damage remediation
- Emotional distress (in some cases)
- Bad faith penalties and legal fees (when applicable)
FAQ
How do I know if the insurance company is acting in bad faith?
If they delay, deny without reason, underpay, or ignore your communication, it could be bad faith. We'll evaluate their conduct.
Can I sue if the insurer blames me for the fire?
Yes - but we'll need to present strong evidence of the true cause. Fire origin experts can be critical.
What if my policy has exclusions for electrical fires?
Even with exclusions, many fire claims are still valid. We'll help interpret your policy and identify alternative angles.
Do I have to accept the insurer's contractor estimate?
No. You have the right to challenge low estimates and provide your own quotes. We help with that process.
How much does it cost to work with you?
We handle property damage claims on a contingency basis - no fees unless we recover money for you.
Get Legal Help After a Fire Damages Your Home
When your home and belongings are damaged by fire, you should be able to count on your insurance. If they won't do right by you, we will. Let us review your claim, assess the damage, and fight for the full compensation you're owed.
Call now to schedule a free consultation with a fire damage attorney in Metairie.