A recent study by Consumer Reports found that only about a third of car insurance policies cover fire damage. Even though fires are one of the most common causes of car damage most insurers consider them to be an act of God and exclude them from coverage.
That means if your car is totaled in a fire you could be stuck paying for the entire loss yourself. And if you only have liability insurance which is the minimum coverage required in most states you wouldn’t be reimbursed for any damage to your own car.
Some car insurance companies will offer limited coverage for fire damage but it’s usually only available as an add-on to your policy. It’s also important to note that this coverage only applies to damage caused by an actual fire and not by heat or smoke.
If you’re concerned about fire damage to your car it’s important to talk to your insurance agent to see if this coverage is right for you.
Will my car insurance cover fire damage?
That depends on your insurance policy.
Some policies will cover fire damage while others will not.
You will need to check your policy to see what is covered.
How do I file a claim for fire damage with my car insurance company?
You will need to contact your insurance company and let them know that your car has been damaged in a fire.
They will likely ask for a police report and/or other documentation.
My car was damaged in a house fire is this covered under my car insurance policy?
That depends on your insurance policy.
Some policies will cover fire damage even if it is not directly to your car.
You will need to check with your specific policy to see what is covered.
I just bought a car and it was damaged in a fire am I covered?
If you have comprehensive coverage then you may be covered.
You will need to check with your insurance company to see if they will cover the damage.
I don’t have comprehensive coverage on my car insurance policy will I be covered if my car is damaged in a fire?
No you will not be covered if you do not have comprehensive coverage.
What if my car is only partially damaged in a fire will my insurance company cover the repairs?
That depends on your insurance policy.
Some policies will cover partial damage while others will not.
You will need to check with your specific policy to see what is covered.
My car was totaled in a fire will my insurance company give me a new car?
If your car is totaled in a fire your insurance company will give you the value of your car.
They will not however give you a new car.
How much will my insurance company give me if my car is totaled in a fire?
Your insurance company will give you the value of your car.
I only have liability coverage on my car insurance policy will I be covered if my car is damaged in a fire?
No you will not be covered if you only have liability coverage.
What is the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage?
Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your car that is not caused by a collision.
Collision coverage covers damage to your car that is caused by a collision.
I have collision coverage on my car insurance policy will I be covered if my car is damaged in a fire?
No collision coverage only covers damage to your car that is caused by a collision.
I have liability coverage on my car insurance policy will I be covered if my car catches on fire?
No liability coverage only covers damage to other people or property not to your own car.
I don’t have any insurance on my car will I be covered if my car is damaged in a fire?
No you will not be covered if you do not have insurance on your car.
Will my car insurance cover fire damage if my car is parked on the street?
That depends on your insurance policy.
Some policies will cover fire damage even if your car is not parked in a garage.
You will need to check with your specific policy to see what is covered.
My car was damaged in a fire and I don’t have insurance can I sue the person who started the fire?
You may be able to sue the person who started the fire but it is unlikely that you will be able to collect any money from them if they do not have insurance.
