Maddens Lawyers has filed a class action lawsuit against utility provider Powercor on behalf of Victorians affected by last month’s Garvoc fire in the southwest of the state.

The law firm began the legal action last month after a meeting with residents and its own investigation indicated a snapped power pole caused the fire.

Class Action Principal Brendan Pendergast told insuranceNEWS.com.au early estimates put the probable total loss and damage compensation at more than $20 million.

Four fires, including the Garvoc blaze, destroyed up to 18 houses and at least 14,000 hectares last month.

Powercor told insuranceNEWS.com.au it is “fully co-operating” with an investigation led by Energy Safe Victoria. The company declined to comment on the lawsuit.