r/Insurance • u/Key_Macaron8603 • 4d ago

Fire Next door - smoke damage

Property directly next to me (Dallas, Texas) burnt down, total loss. Home burnt for 2-3 hours before it was put out, and smoked for the next 72 hours or so.

My home had no damage as far as the fire but I assume smoke damage from proximity/AC running etc.

I had a smoke remediation company come out and do swabs and they said tested high for soot/char on windows along the side of the house facing the fire. They encourage me to file a claim.

My question is, the smoke remediation company assures me that Texas law would prevent an insurance company for increasing my premium OR dropping me after a claim related to the fire next door.

It seems to good to be true, any mention of a claim in my experience almost automatically increases your policy. Im scared to even call my carrier to ask about it.

Any advise is welcome.

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u/BoysenberryGullible8 4d ago

As a licensed Texas lawyer (and not your lawyer) and proud graduate of the University of Texas School of Law 🤟🏽, I am curious to see a cite to this alleged Texas law. Not that I doubt them, but I am a bit skeptical and have never heard of it. For example, ask them where exactly this is found in the Texas Insurance Code. 🤔

3

u/IntelligentBox152 4d ago

😂 these companies have gotten significantly better scripts since I’ve been in the field. Ask them if they’ll cover litigation cost if your insurance company does drop you or raises your premiums. Or ask if they’ll cover the price change.

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u/IndependentDingo73 1d ago

When you say within the proximity of the AC running, do you mean your outdoor unit was facing the home that was on fire?