Fire on Our Minds: Understanding Fire Insurance Coverage

We have all been following the terrible fires in LA., which devastated thousands of homes, and raise a lot of insurance questions. It also reminds us that fire safety is a year-round concern. Even in winter, dry conditions, strong winds, and human activity can lead to fires.

Just to make it real - here are two recent fire claims from our office.

~ In the first, our clients live in a large apartment in Beitar. Their oldest daughter put a load of washing into the dryer and then left the laundry room. After around half an hour, the father smelt a strong, burning smell. Racing down to the laundry room, he saw that the dryer was shooting out flames and thick, sooty smoke filled the room, rapidly filling the whole lower floor.
After the fire was extinguished, they started the job of cleaning up. This took weeks of cleaning walls, cupboards, clothes - the total damage was over ₪100,000. Their insurance company paid the claim in full and then went on to sue the manufacturer of the dryer-the case is still in court.

~ In the second case, the second day of Rosh Hashanah was interrupted by the sound of fire engines! Our client ,who was renting the apartment, had left a lit Yahrzeit candle on a metal tray. The candle (from Osher Ad!) had a plastic base which caught alight, and caused over ₪120,000 of damage. The insurance company took charge of cleaning, plastering and painting.  Again, the right insurance in the right place!

This is where an experienced agent makes all the difference - pushing the insurance company and advocating on behalf of the client.

So, what do I need to know about fire insurance? What is included and what is not?
It does cover fire and explosion damage, smoke damage and alternative accommodation costs. It does NOT cover fires from spontaneous combustion or theft during a fire.

Homeowners need policies that cover the structure and contents of their homes. Renters should confirm their fire coverage responsibility, as some leases place this burden on tenants.

Whether caused by weather, arson, or household hazards, fires are a reality we must prepare for. Fire insurance provides more than financial recovery - it offers security and peace of mind. Knowing you’re protected allows you to face the season confidently.

Stay safe and protected this winter with comprehensive fire insurance coverage.

For expert advice, contact Egert & Cohen, your English-speaking insurance experts since 1985.

• Tel: 02-622-7999  WhatsApp: 054-967-2757
• Email: info@egertcohen.co.il
• Website: Egert & Cohen Insurance