Recover Compensation for Damaged Property

If your home or business has suffered damage, you don’t have to face the financial burden alone. A property damage lawyer in Cambridge from Jim Glaser Law can help you understand your rights and pursue potential compensation through insurance or legal action. Whether the damage was caused by a storm, fire, or another costly event, we’re here to stand by your side.

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A home with severe storm damage.

When your property is damaged, whether by fire, flooding, storms, or structural failures, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often delay, underpay, or deny valid claims, leaving you without the support you need to recover.
Working with a property damage lawyer in Cambridge, MA, can make the difference between a denied claim and a fair settlement. Our team helps homeowners, tenants, and business owners navigate the claims process, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation they’re entitled to under Massachusetts law.

We assist with:

  • Residential and commercial property damage claims
  • Insurance negotiations and disputes
  • Claims involving personal injury or vehicle damage related to an accident
  • Evaluating additional living expenses (ALE) and other overlooked losses

If you’re dealing with denied coverage, slow responses, or just don’t know where to start, we’re here to guide you.

Get Your Free Case Review

1

Getting Help Is Simple

All you have to do is call or fill out the online form, and we will review your policy for free. If you have a case, we will handle everything from there.

2

You Have Rights

You pay for property insurance to cover you in the event of a disaster. If you suffered property damage, you could deserve compensation, and we can help you seek it.

3

You Owe Nothing Unless We Win

Our firm works on contingency, so you owe nothing unless we win. We will conduct a policy review at no cost to you and no obligation, so you won’t owe a penny upfront.

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

5 Star Rating

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What Qualifies as Property Damage?

Legally, property damage refers to the harm, destruction, or loss of use of physical property, such as your home, vehicle, or business, caused by someone else’s actions or negligence. This can include damage from fire, flooding, storms, mold, or even vandalism. In many cases, the cost of repairs or replacement, along with related expenses, may be recoverable through a property damage claim.

Property damage can also be part of a larger personal injury case. For example, if your vehicle was totaled in a car accident caused by another driver, your property damage would be addressed alongside your injury claim. In these situations, it’s important to work with a legal team that can handle both aspects of your case effectively.

If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, a property damage lawyer from our Cambridge office can help.

Common Types of Property Damage We Handle

Fires can cause extensive structural harm, destroy belongings, and leave behind corrosive smoke damage that lingers even after the flames are out.

Common causes include electrical faults, unattended appliances, or wildfires.

One major challenge in smoke damage coverage is proving the full extent of the damage, especially when it’s not immediately visible. Insurance companies may undervalue repairs or ignore lingering effects like odor and soot.

Leaking pipes, appliance failures, roof leaks, and heavy rains can all lead to significant water intrusion. Over time, moisture can cause mold, rot, and health hazards. These cases often involve disputes over whether the damage is “sudden and accidental” (typically covered) or the result of long-term neglect (often denied). Thorough documentation is crucial to a successful claim.

In Cambridge and the surrounding areas, Nor’easters and strong storms can tear off shingles, uproot trees, or damage siding and windows. Storm damage claims are sometimes contested based on whether the damage was caused by wind, rain, or flooding, each of which may be covered differently depending on your policy.

If your car, bicycle, or other property is damaged in a crash caused by someone else, that damage is often part of a broader personal injury claim. Examples include car accidents where your vehicle is damaged and needs repair or replacement. While these cases may seem straightforward, disputes often arise around repair costs, vehicle value, and whether the damage was pre-existing. A property damage lawyer in Cambridge can coordinate with your injury claim to ensure nothing is overlooked.

What to Do After Property Damage Occurs

Acting quickly after property damage can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you protect your rights and begin the recovery process:

Step 1 – Document and Photograph the Damage

  • Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage, both inside and out.
  • Include timestamps if possible.
  • Save receipts or records of recent repairs or upgrades.
  • Create a list of affected items, including estimated value or cost of replacement.

Step 2 – Notify Your Insurance Provider

  • Contact your insurer as soon as possible.
  • File a formal property damage claim and request a copy of the claim number.
  • Be careful when describing the incident—avoid admitting fault or speculating.
  • Keep a log of all communications with your insurance company.

Step 3 – Contact a Property Damage Attorney in Cambridge

  • A lawyer can review your policy and claim for potential gaps or denials.
  • Legal help is especially important if your damage is extensive or your claim is delayed or denied.
  • Having representation can improve your chances of recovering full compensation.

Don’t wait. Deadlines may affect your claim.

Get Your Free Case Review

How Jim Glaser Law Can Help

When you’re dealing with property damage, it helps to have a legal team that knows the process and the local landscape. At Jim Glaser Law, we offer practical support based on years of experience helping homeowners and businesses throughout Cambridge, MA.

We assist clients in compiling the documentation needed to support their claim. This process often includes collecting photographs, repair estimates, maintenance records, and insurance policy reviews. Having organized, well-documented evidence from the outset helps strengthen your position and ensures a more efficient case process.

Our team is well-versed in interpreting complex policy language, helping clients navigate their insurance coverage with clarity and confidence. We assist in responding to documentation requests and work to prevent common errors that can lead to delays or denials. With experience handling claims against many major insurance providers, we understand their processes and know what to expect at every step.

Insurance companies frequently begin with low initial offers, which may not fully account for the true extent of your losses. Our goal is to help secure a settlement that accurately reflects the cost of repairs, lost use, and any additional living expenses you’ve incurred. With our experience on your side, we work to level the playing field so you’re not left to negotiate alone.

If negotiation isn’t enough, we’re prepared to develop a strong case backed by solid facts, detailed documentation, and a thoughtful legal strategy. Each case is approached with a clear, personalized plan that aligns with your unique circumstances. Our results-driven mindset has helped property owners throughout Cambridge pursue compensation and move forward with confidence.

We understand the financial stress that often follows property damage, which is why we work on a contingency basis. That means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This model allows you to focus on your recovery without the added burden of upfront legal costs.

Additional Living Expense (ALE) Coverage: What You May Be Owed

If your property damage makes your home temporarily unlivable, your insurance policy may include something called ALE coverage. This helps pay for the extra costs of living elsewhere while your home is being repaired.

For example: If your home is unlivable after a fire, ALE can cover hotel stays and temporary housing.

ALE may also reimburse you for:

  • Meals or groceries if you can’t use your kitchen
  • Increased transportation costs if you’re living farther from work or school
  • Storage fees for your belongings during repairs
  • Laundry or utility costs beyond your usual expenses

Even when ALE is included in your policy, insurance companies may minimize or overlook these costs. A property damage attorney can review your policy, calculate the full value of your eligible expenses, and push back if the insurer tries to underpay.

If you’ve been displaced from your home, don’t leave money on the table. We can help you understand what you’re truly owed under ALE.

Our Results Speak For Themselves

Lowe’s Class Action (Employment)

$6,500,000

Auto Accident

$2,000,000

Transvaginal Mesh

$1,750,000

Starbucks Class Action (Starbucks Consumer Litigation)

$1,733,000

Workers’ Compensation

$1,600,000

Work-Related Wrongful Death

$1,450,000

Work-Related Motor Vehicle Accident

$925,000

Workers’ Compensation

$550,000

Workers’ Compensation

$500,000

Workers’ Compensation

$485,000

See More Results

How to File a Property Damage Claim

Filing a property damage claim can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never dealt with the process before. Here’s what you need to know to protect your claim and avoid common delays.

  1. Review your insurance policy: Understand what types of damage are covered, your deductibles, and any exclusions.
  2. Document everything: Take photos and videos of the damage, save receipts, and create an inventory of lost or damaged items.
  3. Notify your insurance company: File your claim as soon as possible. Some policies have strict deadlines. Get your claim number and keep records of all communication.
  4. Meet with the adjuster: The insurance company may send someone to assess the damage. Be present during the inspection and point out all affected areas.
  5. Track all expenses: Keep receipts for temporary repairs, additional living expenses, and anything else related to the damage.

If your insurance company denies your claim, offers far less than the actual cost of repairs, or acts in bad faith, you may have grounds for legal action. You can also sue the party who caused the damage directly (such as a negligent contractor or driver), especially if they’re uninsured or underinsured.

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision, request a reinspection, or consult a lawyer to explore your legal options.

When to Call a Lawyer

  • If your damage is severe or your home is uninhabitable
  • If the insurer delays, denies, or underpays your claim
  • If you’re unsure how to calculate your losses or deal with paperwork
  • If the damage is part of a larger personal injury case (like a vehicle crash)

An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate for the full amount you’re owed.

How Long Do Property Damage Claims Take?

The timeline for a property damage claim can vary depending on the type of damage, the responsiveness of your insurance company, and whether any disputes arise. In a straightforward case with proper documentation, you can typically expect a resolution within a few weeks to a few months.

In Cambridge, claims typically take 30–90 days if uncontested.

However, several factors can delay the process:

  • The insurer requests additional documentation or inspections
  • Repairs must be completed before reimbursement is finalized
  • There is disagreement over the cause, extent, or cost of the damage
  • The claim is part of a larger personal injury case

Working with a property damage lawyer can help reduce delays by ensuring your claim is complete, supported by strong evidence, and properly communicated from the start.

FAQs About Property Damage Claims in Massachusetts

Property damage includes harm to your home, apartment, vehicle, or other personal belongings caused by someone else’s negligence or a covered event, such as a fire, storm, or accident. In many cases, property damage claims can also include loss of use, repair costs, and additional expenses incurred while the damage is being fixed.

Generally, emotional distress is not included in a property damage claim alone. However, if the property damage is part of a broader incident, like a car accident or traumatic event, you may be able to pursue compensation for emotional distress as part of a personal injury claim.

It depends on the cause of the mold. Most renters insurance policies will cover mold damage if it results from a “covered peril” such as a burst pipe or accidental overflow. However, mold caused by long-term leaks, poor maintenance, or humidity may be excluded. It’s important to review your policy and consult with a property damage attorney if your claim is denied.

You’re not required to hire a lawyer, but working with a property damage lawyer can make the process smoother, especially if your claim is complex, undervalued, or denied. An attorney can help ensure your documentation is strong, your deadlines are met, and your insurer treats your claim fairly.

Get Help from a Property Damage Lawyer in Cambridge, MA Today

If you’re facing unexpected repair bills, unresponsive insurers, or denied coverage, legal support can make all the difference. A property damage lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather strong evidence, and fight for the full value of your claim—without added stress.

At Jim Glaser Law, we’ve helped homeowners, renters, and business owners throughout Cambridge, MA, recover after serious damage. We’ll walk you through the process and answer your questions during a free consultation, with no obligation to move forward.