BRANTLEY COUNTY, Fla. – Families affected by the wildfires in Georgia should contact their insurance company as soon as possible and thoroughly document damage, public adjusters say.
Goldstar Adjusters offered steps homeowners should take now and cautioned that the claims process can be slow.
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What to do now
- Contact your insurer immediately to start a claim.
- Document everything with photos and videos — inside and outside the home, including open drawers and overall room shots.
- Use existing images, such as family photos or real estate listings, to show what was in the house.
- Gather proof of ownership: credit card records, receipts and online purchase histories (Amazon, Walmart, etc.).
- Get your policy in writing and review coverage limits, including any additional living expenses you may be owed if displaced.
- Keep every receipt; insurers typically reimburse based on documentation.
“Images from your phone, family photos to see what was in each room … and then prove or establish as much of that stuff existed in your home through credit card, receipts, your Walmart account, your Amazon account,” Peter LaFramboise, a public insurance adjuster with Goldstar Adjusters.
“You should expect a long process,” Mark Goldwich said, president and CEO of Goldstar Adjusters. “These tend to not be over quickly.”
Goldwich urged homeowners to prioritize safety first, then compile long lists of damaged items, document conversations and collect repair quotes. Seek professional help if needed, he said.
Experts also warn homeowners not to accept rushed settlement offers. Initial offers can be low; policyholders are generally entitled to replacement cost, not the depreciated value of belongings.
If you choose to hire a public adjuster, confirm their credentials and understand their fees before signing any agreement.