Fire Damage Public Adjuster: Fire Insurance Claims on Long Island
Long Island Public Adjusters helps Nassau and Suffolk County homeowners recover full value on fire and smoke damage insurance claims. We document structural damage, hidden smoke infiltration (including walls and HVAC), water damage from firefighting, contents loss, debris removal, Additional Living Expense (ALE), and code upgrade requirements—then negotiate for a fair settlement. Call 516-410-0164 for a free claim review.
The Fire Claim That Went From $186,000 to More Than $600,000
I handled a residential fire loss that had significant fire damage in the kitchen and adjoining rooms, but smoke had traveled throughout virtually the entire house.
The insurance company's initial building estimate was approximately $186,000.
The problem was that they were treating it primarily as a localized fire repair.
I wasn't.
When I inspected the property, I was looking at the house as an entire system. Smoke doesn't stop at the doorway because that's where the visible flames stopped.
There were issues with insulation, HVAC distribution, wall and ceiling finishes, cabinetry, flooring, electrical components, windows, doors, contents manipulation, cleaning, sealing, deodorization and dozens of smaller operations necessary to actually put the house back together.
Then there were code-related issues and the additional cost created when damaged finishes couldn't simply be patched into the existing construction.
Our building estimate ultimately exceeded $600,000.
That didn't happen because I found one enormous item the insurance company missed. It happened because I found hundreds of smaller differences in scope, quantity and repair methodology.
On a large fire loss, those differences compound very quickly.
— Kevin Godfrey, Licensed Public Adjuster (NY #PA-1156995). Details anonymized; every claim is different and past results don't guarantee future outcomes.
Why You Need a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage Claims
Fire insurance claims are among the most complex you'll ever face. Beyond the obvious structural damage, fires cause smoke infiltration, water damage from firefighting efforts, and often leave hidden damage that isn't immediately visible.
Insurance companies often try to minimize fire claims by disputing the cause, undervaluing structural repairs, or overlooking secondary damages like smoke infiltration in walls, HVAC systems, and personal belongings.
A fire damage public adjuster works exclusively for you — not the insurer — to investigate all damage, both visible and hidden. We work with qualified contractors and specialists to document the full extent of your loss and prepare a comprehensive claim package that leaves nothing on the table.
What We Cover in Fire Damage Claims
Common Fire Damage Insurance Issues on Long Island
Long Island homes range from century-old colonials to modern constructions, each presenting unique challenges in fire claims. Older homes often require code upgrades when rebuilding — costs that should be covered but are often disputed.
We understand the local building codes in Nassau and Suffolk counties and ensure your claim includes all necessary code compliance costs. We also work with local contractors who understand Long Island's building standards and pricing.
Fire Claim Checklist
- Do not dispose of damaged items until documented
- Take photos and videos of all damage
- Keep all receipts for emergency expenses
- Don't sign anything from the insurance company without review
- Call us for a free consultation before accepting any offer
Need Immediate Help?
We're available 24/7 for fire damage emergencies. Call us now for immediate assistance with your claim.
Call 516-410-0164Quick answers
Key Facts for Long Island Homeowners
- Do you check for hidden damage after a fire?
- Yes. Every fire job gets a thermal imaging scan to find water from firefighting trapped in walls and floors, plus a room-by-room smoke and soot review.
- What is the maximum fee a public adjuster can charge in New York?
- 12.5% of the claim settlement under New York State law. Long Island Public Adjusters charges 6–12% on a sliding scale, with no upfront cost.
- Is Long Island Public Adjusters licensed?
- Yes. New York State Public Adjuster License PA-1156995, with 22+ years of claims experience.
- Who does a public adjuster work for?
- Only the policyholder. The insurance company's adjuster works for the insurer.
- What areas do you serve?
- All of Nassau County and Suffolk County, plus the five New York City boroughs.
Our methods
How We Inspect Your Damage
The insurer's estimate is only as good as its inspection. Ours is built to find what theirs leaves out.
1. Thermal imaging
On every water and fire job we scan walls, ceilings and floors with a thermal camera to find hidden moisture you can't see.
2. Moisture readings
We confirm what the camera shows with moisture meter readings and record them, so wet areas are documented, not guessed.
3. Photo documentation
Every damaged area is photographed and labeled room by room, so the insurer can't say an item wasn't damaged.
4. Line-by-line Xactimate estimate
We write our own estimate in Xactimate — the same software insurers use — priced at real Long Island rates.
5. Side-by-side comparison
We compare our estimate to the insurer's line by line and show every missing item and low price, then negotiate the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fire Damage Claims
Get answers to common questions about fire and smoke damage insurance claims.
Don't Let the Insurance Company Undervalue Your Fire Claim
Get a free review of your fire damage claim. We'll tell you if we can help and how much more you might be entitled to.
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