San Francisco Property Claim Attorneys
The San Bruno explosion and fire completely destroyed nearly 50 homes and damaged many more. Within the walls of these wooden structures were irreplaceable items, the items that make a house a home, i.e., family photos and memorabilia. Unfortunately, a new picture frame cannot replace the destroyed frame and the family portrait inside of it that was hanging in the family room and had been passed down for generations.
Although many items are irreplaceable because of the sentimental value, property damage victims can and should immediately begin the process of making a claim for their lost possessions.
Victims should first request a current copy of their current home owners insurance policy if it did not survive the fire. It is important to carefully review and maintain this document.
You should begin working on a thorough list of the items lost. Try visualizing your house room by room. What was on the walls and in the closet? Do you have any photographs taken in the room? Can items in the background be identified? Do not overstate or exaggerate the items owned; be honest and accurate.
Contact your insurance agent and notify him / her of your loss and begin the process of filing a claim.
You are only entitled to the fair market value of the items lost, which is often difficult to determine. For example, if your 2005 Ford Ranger was destroyed in the fire, you are not entitled to a new 2011 truck. Instead, you are only entitled to the reasonable fair market value of your 2005 Ranger, even if it is virtually impossible to replace.
Many insurance companies will provide advanced living expenses, so be sure to carefully review your policy and speak with your agent about this.
The lawyers at Abramson Smith Waldsmith, LLP can assist you with questions about dealing with your insurance company. If you or someone you know has damaged or lost property in the San Bruno explosion and fire, contact Abramson Smith Waldsmith, LLP at 415-421-7995 or Toll-Free 888-745-2988.
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