Prolific wildfires, which have devastated the state for more than a decade, both destroy land and cause insurance crises. In response to wildfire risk, many insurers have reduced coverage options or canceled policies for California homeowners. Thousands more find that their insurers have denied their claims or have received inadequate settlement offers.
If your property is lost or damaged in a wildfire, and insurers fail to review and pay your claim in a timely manner, they may be acting in bad faith. Our attorneys can guide you through the appeals process and help you understand your rights under your policy. Filing insurance claims after a California wildfire can be tedious and confusing, especially if your many belongings are burned beyond recognition. With over seven decades of experience, our team is here to help you navigate your claim with clarity and confidence.
While no one wants to imagine facing wildfire damage, preparing in advance can make the claims process more manageable.
Start by reviewing your homeowners’ or property insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for wildfire-related losses. If your property is uninhabitable , you may be eligible for an immediate, partial payment from your insurer to cover temporary accommodations before a full assessment is completed.
You should also document your property and belongings and assign an estimated value to them. If you own high-end antiques or art, you may need to obtain additional insurance coverage and professional appraisals to receive their full value if they are destroyed in a wildfire. If your property is damaged after a California wildfire, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
If wildfire damage has rendered your property unsafe, contact your insurance agent after you relocate your family to a hotel or a relative’s or friend’s home. State law requires insurers to follow specific timelines when investigating and resolving claims.
Your insurance policy should state your deductible amount, but you can confirm the amount with your agent. This is the amount you are responsible for before your coverage applies. Insurers operating in states with many claims sometimes raise deductibles, so you should check how much your upfront costs will be for repairs or rebuilding.
You should also ask your agent how much time you have to file a claim and how long it may take to process. Your insurer may require you to fill out a Proof of Loss form, which is why it is helpful to catalog your belongings beforehand. You can use your list or a video of your damaged belongings to assist the adjusters, engineers, builders, and appraisers that may be involved in assessing your damage from a California fire once you file an insurance claim.
Filing an insurance claim after a California wildfire can be overwhelming, especially if you are facing delays, denials, or inadequate payouts. At CaseyGerry, our attorneys understand how to navigate these complex claims and advocate for the coverage you may be entitled to under your policy. Contact us today to discuss your options.
