Even a small fire can still feel like a big event. If the flames were contained quickly, the aftermath can be disorienting. Smoke travels. Water from extinguishing efforts spreads. Soot settles into places you did not expect. And emotionally, you may still be running on adrenaline.

This guide is written for homeowners in and around Doylestown, Pennsylvania who want a clear, steady plan for what to do in the days after a fire. Take what helps, skip what does not, and move one step at a time.

First, take care of safety and people

Before you worry about cleanup or paperwork, make sure everyone is safe and accounted for.

If you have any concerns about air quality or structural safety, do not stay inside the home. Even a small kitchen fire can create hidden hazards, such as damaged wiring, weakened cabinets, lingering smoke, or compromised drywall and insulation.

If you have not already:

• Seek medical attention for any breathing irritation, burns, or smoke exposure, even if it seems minor.
• Keep children and pets away from the affected area. Soot and debris can be harmful if touched or inhaled.
• If you smell gas, hear hissing, or suspect electrical damage, leave the home and call the utility company or emergency services.

If the fire department gave you instructions about re-entry, follow them closely. If you are unsure, call and ask. It is worth the extra caution.

Secure the property and prevent further damage

In Pennsylvania winters, a home can take on additional damage quickly if windows are broken, doors do not close properly, or the HVAC system is compromised. Your goal in the first 24 to 72 hours is to stabilize the situation.

Consider these steps:

• Board up broken windows or damaged doors.
• Tarp any roof openings if there is visible damage.
• If water was used to put out the fire, begin drying the area as soon as it is safe. Standing water can lead to secondary damages such as mold.
• If you must leave the home, lock it and consider temporary lighting or a camera if appropriate.

Most insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. If you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself, a public adjuster can guide you.

Document everything before you start moving things

It is natural to want to clean up immediately. But documentation is one of the most important steps you can take, and it is easiest to do before items are removed, thrown away, or scrubbed.

Here is a simple approach:

• Take wide photos of every room, even rooms that look unaffected.
• Take close-up photos of damaged areas, including soot staining, burned materials, and water damage.
• Record a walk-through video, narrating what happened and what you see.
• Photograph labels or model numbers for appliances, electronics, and major items.

If you throw something away for health reasons, try to photograph it first and keep a small sample when safe, like a label, a charred edge of material, or a photo showing the item clearly. At Property Adjustment we use a 360 degree camera in every room before any restoration work begins.

Start a basic incident file

You do not need a perfect system. You just need a place to keep the important pieces together so you are not hunting for them later.

Create a folder, digital or paper, that includes:

• Fire department report information or the incident number
• Your insurance claim number and adjuster contact details
• Photos and videos
• Receipts for emergency expenses (hotel, meals, temporary clothing, supplies)
• A running log of phone calls and visits (date, who you spoke with, what was said)

This becomes extremely helpful if questions come up later about timing, approvals, or what was discussed. As professional adjusters we use an industry software program that documents all this information along with a chronological record of the personal, emails and events.

Call your insurance company, but pace the conversation

If you have not filed a claim, You can let Property Adjustment Corporation contact your carrier and start the process. Keep the first call simple:

• Share the date and general cause if known.
• Explain the areas affected.
• Ask what immediate steps they recommend and what documentation they need.
• Request clarity on temporary living expenses if your home is not livable.

A gentle word of caution: in the early days, it is easy to agree to things you do not fully understand because you just want progress. If you are asked to sign documents, approve a scope of work, or accept a settlement estimate, it is okay to slow down and review it carefully. This is were the advice of a licensed public adjuster who has aided hundred’s of families through similar experiences in invaluable. 

Understand what “smoke damage” really means

After a small fire, homeowners are often surprised by how far smoke and soot traveled. Smoke can move through HVAC systems, attic spaces, wall cavities, and open doorways. It can settle in textiles, insulation, and porous materials.

Common issues in the days following a fire include:

• Persistent odor that worsens when heat turns on
• Soot film on walls, ceilings, or inside cabinets
• Staining around vents or on window coverings
• Damaged wiring, outlets, or appliances near heat
• Water damage behind baseboards or under flooring from suppression efforts

If the home smells smoky, try not to mask it with candles or sprays. That can complicate cleanup and does not solve the underlying problem. Restoration usually involves proper filtration, cleaning, and in some cases removal of affected materials.

Be careful about DIY cleanup

Some light cleaning may feel manageable, but soot is not like regular dust. If you wipe soot the wrong way, you can smear it deeper into surfaces.

A few safe guidelines:

• Avoid dry sweeping or using household vacuums, which can spread soot into the air.
• If you clean, use gentle methods and test in a small area first.
• Do not run your HVAC system if you suspect smoke entered the ductwork, unless a professional confirms it is safe.

If you are unsure whether something should be cleaned or removed, it is often best to pause and get a professional opinion. Quick decisions can accidentally create bigger issues later.

Keep track of “extra” costs that add up

In the days after a fire, people often spend money quickly, and then forget what they spent. Many policies include coverage for additional living expenses or costs tied to protecting the property.

Keep receipts for:

• Temporary lodging and meals if you cannot cook
• Laundry services
• Replacement toiletries and basic clothing
• Storage bins, tarps, fans, or dehumidifiers
• Boarding or pet care if needed

Even if reimbursement is not guaranteed, it is worth documenting. You can always decide later what to submit.

Know when a public adjuster can help

Insurance claims can be straightforward, but fire losses often involve details that are easy to miss: hidden smoke damage, contents cleaning vs replacement, code upgrades, and the true scope of restoration. If you feel overwhelmed, uncertain about what should be covered, or concerned that the estimate is too low, you do not have to handle it alone.

A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company. They can help:

• Document the full scope of damage, including areas the fire did not directly touch
• Inventory damaged contents and support values with proper documentation
• Review the carrier’s estimate for omissions
• Communicate with the insurance company so you can focus on your home and family

Property Adjustment Corporation serves homeowners throughout Doylestown and the surrounding Bucks County area. If you want a calm second set of eyes on the claim or simply want help to understand your options, an initial conversation can often bring clarity.

A steady next step

If you do nothing else today, do these three things:

1. Make sure the home is safe to enter and remain in.
2. Photograph and video everything before cleanup.
3. Start a simple folder for notes, contacts, and receipts and Property Adjustment’s phone number 215.355.FIRE.

Then take a breath. Recovery after a fire is not just a checklist, it is a process. The goal is not to rush, it is to rebuild confidently and make sure the insurance claim reflects what you truly need to restore your home.

If you would like help reviewing your fire claim, understanding your coverage, or documenting smoke and soot damage properly, Property Adjustment Corporation is here to guide you through it.

A simple homeowner’s checklist for tough Pennsylvania winters (Doylestown, PA)

Pennsylvania winters have a way of testing a home’s weak spots. And this season has already delivered plenty to test them with. Bucks County saw a significant early-season snow event in mid-December, with totals around the Doylestown area reported at roughly 8 inches. We also saw bursts of Arctic air behind storms that can drive wind chills toward 0°F in the broader region. And even when the forecast swings warmer, those freeze-thaw cycles can be just as hard on your home as the cold itself.

Below is an easy, homeowner-friendly guide you can run through in under an hour. It focuses on the early warning signs that often show up before a “big” problem becomes obvious.

Why winter damage often starts small

Winter-related issues usually come from a few repeat offenders:

• Freeze-thaw cycles: Water gets into tiny gaps, freezes, expands, and widens the opening. Repeat that a few times and suddenly you have a leak, crack, or draft. 
• Ice and snow load: Weight on roofs and gutters stresses fasteners and flashing, especially after heavy or wet snow. 
• Wind-driven cold: Cold air finds weaknesses in insulation and sealing, increasing heating costs and creating condensation problems indoors.

Quick winter damage check: Start outside

If it’s safe (and not icy), do a slow lap around your home.

1) Roofline and shingles (look from the ground)

Early signs to watch for:

• Shingles that look wavy, lifted, missing, or “patchy”
• Dark streaks or spots that were not there before (can hint at moisture)
• Sagging areas along the roofline

Why it matters: Even a small shingle shift can let water in during melting, rain, or wind-driven moisture, and the first interior sign might not appear until weeks later.

2) Gutters, downspouts, and drainage

Check for:

• Gutters pulling away from the fascia
• Bent sections or separated seams
• Downspouts that are loose or dumping water too close to the foundation
• Icicles forming repeatedly in the same spot

Helpful tip: Icicles can be harmless, but consistent heavy icicles can also point to ice dam conditions or poor drainage. Ice dams often lead to roof leaks when melting water backs up under shingles.

3) Siding, trim, and caulk lines

Look closely at:

• Cracked caulk around trim, vents, and penetrations
• Warped or loose siding panels
• Gaps around exterior hose bibs and pipe penetrations

Winter expands and contracts materials, and those little gaps are often where wind and water start their work.

4) Foundation and exterior concrete

Look for:

• New hairline cracks, or cracks that appear wider than before
• Flaking or chipping concrete (spalling), often made worse by salt and moisture
• Areas where soil has settled and now slopes toward the house

Water pooling near the foundation during a thaw is a classic “small now, bigger later” issue.

Move inside: the “early warning” rooms

5) Attic (if accessible) and top-floor ceilings

This is one of the best places to catch winter damage early.

Look for:

• Damp insulation, wet wood, or a musty smell
• Dark staining on rafters or sheathing
• Frost on nails or roof decking (a ventilation/condensation clue)
• Ceiling stains that look faint yellow or light brown

If you’ve had snow and then a warm-up (common in PA), melting can reveal problems quickly. 

6) Windows and exterior doors

Simple tests:

• Run your hand near edges for drafts
• Look for condensation between panes (possible seal failure)
• Check for peeling paint or soft wood at sills

Red flag: Consistent condensation on the inside of windows can be a sign of humidity issues, poor ventilation, or insulation gaps. Over time, that moisture can damage trim, drywall, and even encourage mold.

7) Bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry areas (hidden plumbing risk)

Cold snaps can stress supply lines and fittings.

Check:

• Under-sink cabinets for dampness or water rings
• Behind toilets for subtle moisture
• Around the dishwasher and refrigerator water line
• Laundry supply valves and the wall behind the washer

If you notice a “clean” water smell, warped cabinet base, or bubbling paint, don’t ignore it. A slow leak can become a fast one.

8) Basement and crawlspace

Look for:

• Damp walls, new efflorescence (white, chalky residue), or “tide lines”
• Musty odor changes from normal
• Water near floor drains or at the base of foundation walls
• Sump pump running more often during thaws

Even if the basement looks “mostly fine,” winter moisture can show up as subtle humidity first.

The freeze-thaw “watch list” (common in Bucks County)

Here are a few winter issues that show up a lot locally, especially when we get snow followed by temperature swings:

• Ice dams and roof leaks: Often first noticed as a faint ceiling stain or a damp attic smell.
• Pipe freeze stress: Sometimes the pipe does not burst immediately. A fitting can crack and start leaking later.
• Gutter separation: Snow/ice weight loosens fasteners, then a warm rain finishes the job.
• Foundation seepage during thaws: Meltwater plus saturated soil finds the path of least resistance.

What to do if you spot something

Document it the smart way (takes 5 minutes)

If you see staining, warping, wet spots, or cracks that look new:

• Take wide photos (show the whole wall/ceiling/area)
• Take close-ups (show detail)
• Note the date, the room, and what the weather was like (snow, thaw, heavy wind)

This is helpful for contractors, and it can matter if an insurance claim becomes necessary.

Prevent the “next step” damage

Some quick, safe moves:

• Put a bucket under an active drip and move valuables
• Run a dehumidifier in damp areas
• Keep heat consistent during cold stretches and open under-sink cabinet doors on exterior walls
• If a ceiling is bulging or actively dripping, treat it as urgent

If there’s any electrical risk (water near fixtures/outlets), play it safe and call a professional.

When a public adjuster can help

If winter damage becomes more than a quick DIY fix, insurance claims can get complicated fast. That’s especially true with hidden moisture, roof leaks that show up later, or situations where multiple areas are affected.

Property Adjustment Corporation (a public adjuster serving homeowners in and around Doylestown) can help by:

• Evaluating damage thoroughly (including less obvious impacts)
• Review your insurance policy to see if the damage is “claim worthy”
• Organizing documentation and evaluating damages in a language your insurance company speaks.
• Helping ensure the scope reflects what actually happened, not just what is immediately visible to get you fully compensated for the damage.

A simple “January routine” for homeowners

Because we’ve already had meaningful snow in the area and bursts of very cold air, it’s worth doing this check now, even though winter is still early. Then repeat it after the next big freeze or storm.

As temperatures begin to drop across Pennsylvania, homeowners know what’s coming: freezing pipes, heavy snow, ice dams, and the risk of water damage. Every winter, Property Adjustment Corporation helps clients throughout the region recover from the kinds of damages that could have been prevented with a few proactive steps. As public adjusters, we’ve seen the aftermath of the cold season up close and we want to help you avoid becoming another insurance claim statistic.

1. Protect Your Pipes Before They Freeze

One of the most common winter claims we see involves burst pipes. In one Montgomery County home, a single frozen pipe in the basement led to over $40,000 in water damage after a weekend trip away.

Prevention tips:

• Keep your home heated to at least 55°F, even when you’re away.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas like garages, attics, and crawl spaces.

• Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water flowing.

If your pipes do freeze, shut off the water supply immediately and contact a professional plumber.

2. Keep Roofs and Gutters Clear to Prevent Ice Dams

Ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof, melting snow that refreezes along the eaves. Over time, this forces water back under shingles and into your home. We’ve adjusted claims where homeowners didn’t even notice the damage until water was dripping through ceiling lights.

Prevention tips:

• Clean gutters thoroughly before the first snowfall.

• Ensure proper attic insulation and ventilation.

• Remove excess snow from the roof safely using a roof rake.

If you notice ice buildup, avoid chipping it yourself and call a professional to safely remove it.

3. Inspect Heating Systems and Chimneys

A faulty furnace or blocked chimney can lead to fire or smoke damage… two of the most devastating winter claims we handle. In one Bucks County case, a clogged flue caused smoke to fill the home, resulting in extensive soot contamination that required professional cleaning and deodorizing.
Prevention tips:

• Schedule annual inspections for furnaces, boilers, and fireplaces.

• Replace filters regularly.

• Keep space heaters clear of flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

4. Watch for Snow Load and Structural Strain

Heavy, wet snow can place enormous weight on flat or aging roofs. We’ve seen older porches and garages collapse under pressure after back-to-back snowstorms.
Prevention tips:

• Monitor snow buildup and remove it carefully when safe.

• Reinforce older structures if you expect significant accumulation.

• Keep exits, vents, and utility areas clear of snow and ice.

5. Know What to Do if Damage Occurs

Even with the best preparation, winter weather can be unpredictable. If you experience frozen pipes, roof leaks, or other damage, document everything with photos and video, and contact a licensed public adjuster before calling your insurance company.
 

At Property Adjustment Corporation, we’ve helped Pennsylvania homeowners since 1989 navigate complex winter claims. We interpret your policy, assess the true extent of damage, and advocate for a fair settlement, so you can focus on getting your home back to normal.

Final Thoughts

Winter in Pennsylvania is beautiful, but it can also be brutal on your home. A few preventative steps now can save thousands later. If the cold still gets the best of your property, remember… you don’t have to face the insurance company alone. Property Adjustment Corporation is here to make sure you’re treated fairly every step of the way.

Thanksgiving is one of the most joyful times of the year. Filled with family, food, and gratitude. But as Pennsylvania public adjusters, we also know it’s one of the busiest weeks for home damage claims. Between kitchen mishaps, overloaded outlets, and guests coming and going, the risk of fire, water, or accidental damage rises sharply.

At Property Adjustment Corporation, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a cozy holiday can turn into a costly disaster. Here are some real-world lessons and simple steps to keep your home and family safe this Thanksgiving.

1. Cook with Care… The Kitchen is Ground Zero

Each year, fire departments across Pennsylvania respond to hundreds of kitchen fires over Thanksgiving weekend. We’ve handled claims where an unattended frying pan ignited grease and caused smoke damage throughout the home, just minutes before guests arrived.

Safety Tips:

• Never leave cooking food unattended, especially when frying or broiling. 
• Keep kids and pets at least three feet from the stove. 
• Double-check that oven mitts, dish towels, and packaging are clear of burners. 
• Have a working fire extinguisher nearby (and make sure everyone knows where it is). 

If a small kitchen fire does occur, don’t panic. Extinguish it if you can safely do so and call professionals immediately. Smoke and soot damage can travel fast, even if flames are contained.

2. Deep-Fried Turkey? Do It Outside and Far Away

We’ve inspected more than a few homes in Bucks and Montgomery Counties where a “fun new way to cook turkey” led to thousands in property damage. Turkey fryers can easily tip over, spill hot oil, or cause flames to reach nearby siding or decks.

Safety Tips:

• Always fry outdoors on a flat, non-combustible surface. NEVER on a porch or in a garage. 
• Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before submerging it in oil. 
• Keep kids, pets, and distractions away while cooking. 

A few moments of caution can save you from a claim that takes months to resolve.

3. Check Electrical Loads Before You Plug In

Holiday lights and decorations bring warmth and fun, but overloaded outlets or frayed wires are a leading cause of electrical fires. We’ve seen fire claims start from a single old extension cord powering too many strands of lights.

Safety Tips:

• Inspect cords for damage before use. 
• Avoid daisy-chaining multiple extension cords. 
• Use surge protectors and LED lights, which run cooler and use less power. 
• Turn off all decorations before bed or when leaving the house. 

4. Keep Walkways Clear for Guests

Slip-and-fall claims spike in late November, especially when walkways are wet or icy. A guest slipping on your front step could lead to both injury and liability.

Safety Tips:

• Clear leaves, ice, or debris from entryways before guests arrive. 
• Use outdoor mats and good lighting. 
• Inside, keep clutter and cords away from common walking paths. 

5. Know What’s Covered Before You Need It

If something does go wrong this Thanksgiving, your insurance policy might cover more than you think (or less than you expect). That’s where a public adjuster comes in. We work for you, not the insurance company, to make sure you receive a fair settlement.

For example, after a holiday kitchen fire in Bucks County last year, our team helped a homeowner recover funds not just for structural repair, but also for professional cleaning, odor removal, and temporary housing, items the insurer initially overlooked.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving without worry. A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing the kind of accidents that can spoil a holiday.

If disaster strikes, Property Adjustment Corporation is here to help Pennsylvania homeowners navigate their insurance claims quickly and fairly.

Stay safe, stay grateful, and don’t be a turkey this Thanksgiving.

Summer in Pennsylvania can be beautiful, but when those heatwaves roll in, they bring more than just the chance for pool days and backyard barbecues. Extreme heat can pose serious risks to your home – and your health. As your trusted public adjuster here at Property Adjustment Corporation, we want to make sure you’re prepared to keep your family safe and your property protected this season.

1. Roof Damage from Intense Heat

High temperatures can cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks, curled shingles, and leaks. If you notice any shingles lifting or warping, schedule an inspection before storms roll in. Preventative maintenance now can save you from costly water damage repairs later.

2. HVAC System Overload

Your air conditioning unit works overtime in the summer, especially during Pennsylvania’s humid heat spells. Change your filters regularly and consider having a professional check your system to avoid sudden breakdowns on the hottest days.

3. Fire Hazards

Dry grass, leaves, and mulch around your home become fire risks during extended dry periods. Keep your yard clear of debris, store flammable items away from your house, and never leave grills or fire pits unattended.

4. Warping and Cracking of Siding or Decks

Vinyl siding, wood trim, and decks can warp, crack, or fade under relentless sun exposure. Regularly inspect these areas for damage and consider applying protective sealants or paint to minimize wear.

5. Heat Damage to Foundations

In some areas, extreme heat combined with dry soil conditions can cause the ground to shrink slightly, potentially leading to cracks in your foundation. Keep your soil moderately moist near your foundation by watering it lightly during long dry spells.

6. Indoor Air Quality Issues

Excess humidity in your home can lead to mold growth, especially in basements or areas with poor ventilation. Use dehumidifiers where needed and ensure vents are clear to keep air moving.

Tips to Stay Safe and Prevent Heat Damage

• Schedule a roof and HVAC inspection early in the season.
• Keep gutters clear to prevent water backup during summer storms.
• Trim back trees or branches that could damage your roof in high winds.
• Never overload electrical outlets with fans and AC units.
• Stay hydrated and check on elderly neighbors or relatives during extreme heat warnings.

At Property Adjustment Corporation, we’re here to help if heat-related damage ever impacts your home.

If you notice any damage this summer – whether it’s your roof, HVAC system, or foundation – don’t hesitate to reach out to our public adjuster team. We’ll review your policy and help you navigate the claims process to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy your Pennsylvania summer with peace of mind.

A house fire is one of the most traumatic events a homeowner can experience. In the aftermath, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. It’s crucial to take the right steps—not only for your safety but also to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to from your insurance policy.

One of the most important things to remember is that you should not deal with your insurance company alone. Insurance companies have their own adjusters who represent the insurance company, not you. A misworded statement can be used to reduce or deny your claim and jeopardize your quality of life moving forward. Instead, let a licensed public adjuster handle all communication on your behalf to protect your rights and maximize your settlement.

1. Ensure Your Safety

Your safety and the safety of your family should be the top priority. If the fire department hasn’t given clearance to re-enter your home, do not attempt to go inside. Fire damage can cause structural instability, lingering smoke and chemicals may be hazardous. If needed, seek medical attention for any injuries or smoke inhalation.

2. Call a Public Adjuster Immediately

Before doing anything else, contact a public adjuster who specializes in house fire claims. A public adjuster is your advocate, working solely for you—not the insurance company. They will:

• Assess and document all fire, smoke, and water damage.
• Prepare an estimate to rebuild your home
• Inventory and evaluate all contents in your home
• Handle all communication with your insurance company to prevent costly mistakes.
• Ensure you receive the maximum payout you are entitled to under your policy.

3. Take a Breath Before Talking to Your Insurance Company

It may seem logical to call your insurance company right away, but this can hurt your claim. Insurance companies carefully document and record everything you say, and a single misstatement—such as downplaying the damage or guessing the cause of the fire—can lead to a reduced payout or even a claim denial.

Instead, let your public adjuster handle all notifications, conversations, paperwork, and negotiations on your behalf. They know how to phrase things correctly and ensure that nothing is said that could be to your disadvantage.

Your insurance company’s adjuster is trained to minimize payouts, but a public adjuster fights to make sure you get every dollar you deserve

4. Secure the Property (If Possible)

Once it’s safe to do so, you are required to take steps to prevent further damage. This could include boarding up windows, covering openings with tarps, or securing valuables. Public adjusters work with emergency restoration teams who can handle this for you.

5. Document the Damage

Your public adjuster will thoroughly document the extent of the damage to maximize your claim. However, if you’re able to safely take photos and videos of the following, it can help support your case:

• Structural damage (walls, ceilings, floors, roof)
• Damage to personal belongings
• Smoke and water damage
• Destroyed appliances and electronics

Do not discard anything until your adjuster has documented it for your claim.

6. Let Your Public Adjuster Handle the Entire Claims Process

Insurance claims can be complex, and policy language can be difficult to interpret. Your public adjuster will:

• Review your insurance policy to determine what is covered.
• Compile a detailed damage report with supporting evidence.
• Negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Arrange for temporary housing coverage if your policy includes it.

Without a public adjuster, homeowners often accept settlements that are far lower than what they are entitled to—simply because they don’t know how to navigate the claim system.

7. Be Patient and Stay Organized

Fire damage claims take time, but having a public adjuster on your side will ensure you are getting every benefit afforded under your policy and help you avoid unnecessary delays. Keep all records, receipts, and correspondence in one place to track expenses related to the fire.

8. Begin the Recovery Process

Once your public adjuster has secured the settlement you deserve, you can begin rebuilding and replacing lost items. Work with reputable contractors who specialize in fire damage restoration to ensure your home is rebuilt safely and up to code.

A house fire is a devastating event, but you don’t have to go through the insurance claims process alone. A public adjuster will notify your insurance company and prevent you from making mistakes dealing directly with your insurance company. A licensed Public Adjuster will protect your claim and ensure the best possible outcome.

At Property Adjustment Corporation, we been advocating on behalf of homeowners for thirty-five years, ensuring they receive every dollar they’re entitled to under their policy. If you’ve experienced a house fire, contact us today for a consultation—let us fight for you.

You may be asking yourself “What is a Puff Back?” It may sound like a French pastry, but it is nothing like it. 

A Puff Back is a malfunction of an oil burner in a home or structure that results in smoke damage throughout. Technically it is referred to as a “delayed ignition explosion”. You may become aware that your heating system experienced a Puff Back when you notice black/grey lines on your walls, ceilings and in the corner of your rooms. 

What causes a Puff Back?

Oil is a liquid that ignites as a gas. To turn oil into a gas it is pumped through a small orifice or nozzle then ignited. When the nozzle is clogged, the oil continues to try to pump, the pressure releases the blockage and ignites a larger than normal amount of fuel. This results in soot leaving the confines of the heating system and traveling throughout the home. 

What are the damages from a Puff Back?

The petroleum bases soot deposits on the surfaces of your home must be cleaned, sealed, and painted. Hardwood floors need to be sanded and refinished. Carpeting and window treatments may need to be replaced. Soft furniture like sofas and bedding may necessitate replacement. The damage can be quite extensive.

What can I do to prevent a Puff Back?

Pumping the oil in the bottom of the tank where sediment or sludge may be present sometimes blocks the nozzle causing Puff Backs. Keeping your oil tank topped off decreases that risk. Getting your heater services annually also decreases the risk of a Puff Back. The annual service normally includes cleaning the unit, replacing the tanks filter and replacing the nozzle.

What do I do if I suspect I had a Puff Back?

First Call: To a heater technician to service your heating unit.

Second Call: To Property Adjustment Corporation to properly present the claim to your Insurance carrier and evaluate the benefits due under your Insurance policy. 

We all heard the old saying “a picture is worth 1000 words”.  Well, as a public insurance adjuster, I have to say that is certainly true in documenting Insurance Claims. There were many times I was glad we had photos when Insurance companies challenged our claim submissions and there were few times, I wish I took more.

Photos and the physical damage are enough. What I mean by that is occasionally, I have a client insist that the Insurance see the tree on the house or feel the wet carpet. I assure you that is not necessary. Your insurance company Adjuster knows what wet carpet and drywall looks like, so they don’t have to see it for themselves. Conversely so, your insurance policy requires you to protect your property from further damage after a loss. You must take the tree off the house and patch the roof, so more water doesn’t enter the home the next day it rains. You are required to remove the wet carpet out to prevent secondary damage from mold and mildew. It also helps to calculate the repair cost when the damaged items are removed. Since it is required to protect your property under your policy, your insurance company will reimburse you for any expense you incur. 

You also have a duty to show your insurance company the damaged property. This means that you can make any temporary repairs to protect your property, but you cannot make permanent repairs until the insurance company has a chance to inspect. In our example with the tree through the roof, you can remove the tree, tarp the hole in the roof then stop. You cannot get the local roofer to replace the plywood and put on a new roof before your insurance company has a chance to see the damaged roof.

Resist the urge to load the curb on trash night. You are required to separate the damaged property from the undamaged property. I had many clients walk the wet contents from the basement to the curb the first trash night after the damaged occurred. By doing that you just walked your claim to the trash truck. You are better to pile them in the back yard. Regardless, if you take pictures, your insurance company still needs to see the damaged items before they pay for them. Patience pays.

The rules of a successful claim are many. It is always best to consult a professional to protect your interest.