Immediate Steps to Take After a Wildfire Loss
As wildfires impact communities across Los Angeles County and beyond, knowing how to navigate the aftermath is crucial. Fire damage is heartbreaking, devastating and overwhelming but with the right steps, you can rebuild and recover effectively. This guide focuses on what to do after a catastrophic loss to ensure you maximize your insurance benefits and start your recovery journey.
What to Do Immediately After a Wildfire
- Ensure Safety First: Only return to your property when authorities have declared it safe to do so. Prioritize personal safety over inspecting damage.
- STAY INFORMED – https://lacounty.gov/emergency/
- Notify Your Insurance Provider: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the loss. Many insurers have 24/7 hotlines for emergencies. Request a copy of your policy if you don’t have one on hand.
- Document the Damage Thoroughly: Before any cleanup, take detailed photos and videos of all affected areas, including personal belongings, structural damage, and the surrounding property. This documentation will be essential for your claim.
- Prevent Further Damage: If safe, take measures to secure your property and prevent additional damage. Cover broken windows, tarp damaged roofs, and remove valuable items if possible. Your insurance policy may require you to mitigate further loss.
- File a Claim Promptly: Provide your insurer with the required documentation, including your initial photos and an inventory of lost or damaged items. Ask for a claim number and keep it handy for all correspondence.
Securing Temporary Housing
Finding temporary housing after a wildfire can be stressful, but insurance and community resources can help:
- Use Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage: Most homeowners’ insurance policies include ALE, which reimburses you for reasonable costs incurred while living away from your home during repairs or rebuilding. This can cover hotel stays, rent, and even additional costs for food if you’re unable to cook at home.
- Request an Advance: If you’re displaced and need immediate housing, request an advance from your insurance company to cover upfront costs. This can help bridge the gap until reimbursements come through.
- FEMA Assistance: If your area has been declared a disaster zone, you may qualify for temporary housing assistance through FEMA. Visit fema.gov or call their hotline for more information.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Groups like the American Red Cross and United Way often provide immediate housing assistance, financial aid, and connections to local shelters.
- Short-Term Rentals: Look into short-term rental options through services like Airbnb or VRBO. Some providers offer discounts for wildfire victims.
What If Personal Funds Are Limited?
For individuals with limited financial resources, there are several options:
- State and Federal Assistance: Beyond FEMA, California often provides state disaster relief funds for residents impacted by wildfires. Contact your local government offices for programs in your area.
- Charitable Organizations: Many non-profits focus on helping wildfire survivors. Organizations like Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and local churches frequently offer financial aid or direct support.
- Payment Plans with Hotels or Rentals: Discuss flexible payment arrangements with hotel managers or landlords. Some accommodations may be willing to work with you if they know you’re waiting on insurance reimbursements.
- Emergency Loans: If necessary, consider applying for low-interest disaster loans from organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA), which also supports homeowners in disaster zones. Start the process at SBA Disaster Loan Assistance.
Helpful Resources for Recovery
- California FAIR Plan: A last-resort insurance option for those in high-risk wildfire areas. Learn more at cfpnet.com.
- Disaster Assistance Programs: FEMA and state programs may provide additional aid for rebuilding and recovery. Visit fema.gov.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Groups like the American Red Cross and United Way offer immediate relief and long-term support for wildfire survivors.
- 211 LA: A comprehensive resource for health, housing, and emergency assistance. Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211la.org to explore options for temporary housing and other support services.
- 211 LA serves as a central hub for health, human, and social services in Los Angeles County.
- By dialing 2-1-1 or visiting 211la.org, residents can access information and referrals for various needs, including: Emergency Housing Assistance: 211 LA connects individuals and families with emergency shelter options, especially during crises like wildfires. They coordinate with local shelters and programs to provide immediate housing solutions.
- 211 LA Homeless Outreach Initiatives: The organization identifies and assists homeless individuals, directing them to services that offer support and housing opportunities.
- 211 LA Airbnb’s Disaster Response: Airbnb, through its nonprofit arm Airbnb.org, facilitates temporary stays for people in times of crisis. Their programs include:
- Emergency Stays: Hosts can offer free or discounted accommodations to individuals displaced by disasters, such as wildfires. This initiative supports evacuees and relief workers needing immediate shelter.
- AIRBNB Open Homes Program: Activated during significant disasters, this program enables hosts to provide free housing to those affected. For instance, during the California wildfires, Airbnb activated the Open Homes Program to assist displaced residents and relief workers.
- How to Access These Services: Contact 211 LA: Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211la.org to speak with a community resource advisor who can guide you to available housing assistance programs and other support services tailored to your situation.
- Utilize Airbnb’s Emergency Housing: If you’re displaced by a disaster, check Airbnb.org for available emergency stays. You can also contact Airbnb’s support team for assistance in finding suitable accommodations during emergencies.
Caring for Elderly Neighbors
- Firstly, be a good neighbor and check on seniors in your neighborhood. These situations can be confusing, frightening and overwhelming for them and many need ambulatory assistance. EVACUATE THEM if you are able to. Many are unable to drive.
- Gather medications and other medical supplies from the home. (Some need care for incontinence, so make sure to ask if they need supplies)
- Ask when the last time they took their meds was.
- Ask for an emergency contact and reach out. Some may have lost access to phones.
- Be sure the person is fed and hydrated. Many need to take food with medications.
- Supply N-95 masks if you are able to. Poor air quality is a huge risk to life-threatening respiratory issues for the elderly.
- Ask if there is a pet that needs attended to. Many rely on their beloved animals for emotional stability; a loss or abandonment can be overwhelmingly stressful.
- Contact a local senior community resource program such as the Los Angeles Department of Aging and Disabilities and ask for direction on how to help your neighbor.
Will Wildfires Be Covered by Insurance?
Wildfires are generally covered under standard homeowners’ insurance policies and are not classified as an “act of God” for exclusion purposes. Insurance companies use the term “act of God” to describe natural disasters outside of human control, but most policies specifically outline what is and isn’t covered.
- Included in Standard Policies: Most policies cover fire damage, including wildfires. This includes the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home, replacing belongings, and temporary housing expenses under Additional Living Expenses (ALE).
- High-Risk Areas May Require Extra Coverage: In wildfire-prone regions, insurance companies may require additional policies, such as those offered by the California FAIR Plan, to cover specific wildfire risks.
- No Blanket Exclusion: Unlike earthquakes or floods, which often require separate policies, wildfires are typically part of standard coverage unless specifically excluded (rare in most policies).
Maximizing Your Insurance Claim
- Request a Full Copy of Your Policy: This will help you understand your coverage limits, deductibles, and what’s included, such as debris removal, rebuilding costs, and additional living expenses (ALE).
- Ask for an Advance: If you’re displaced, request an advance on your ALE to cover immediate needs like temporary housing, food, and clothing.
- Keep Detailed Records: Track all expenses related to evacuation, temporary housing, repairs, and personal purchases. Keep receipts and organize them in a digital or physical folder.
- Get Multiple Repair Estimates: Don’t rely solely on the insurer’s contractor. Obtain independent estimates to ensure fair compensation for repairs.
- Stay Proactive in Communication: Regularly follow up with your insurance adjuster. Document all communications and request updates on the claims process timeline.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Delays in Payouts: If your claim is delayed, inquire about the reasons and escalate to a supervisor if necessary. Consider contacting the California Department of Insurance for assistance.
- Disputes Over Coverage: If you disagree with the insurer’s assessment, consider hiring a public adjuster or an attorney specializing in insurance claims.
- Underinsurance Issues: If your coverage falls short of rebuilding costs, inquire about state programs or community resources that can supplement your recovery effort.
If you’re concerned about your coverage or exclusions, review your policy or consult your insurance provider to confirm.
Insurance Company Wildfire Claims Hotlines
Here are contact numbers for some of the top insurance companies to report wildfire claims:
- State Farm: 800-732-5246
- Allstate: 800-547-8676
- Farmers Insurance: 800-435-7764
- Liberty Mutual: 800-225-2467
- California Casualty: 800-800-9410, option 4
- Mercury Insurance: 800-503-3724
- Western Mutual: 800-927-2142
- AAA Insurance: 800-222-7623 ext. 2600
- USAA: 800-531-8722
- Nationwide: 800-421-3535
- Travelers Insurance: 800-252-4633
- Chubb Group: 800-252-4670
- Safeco Insurance: 800-332-3226
- The Hartford: 800-243-5860
- GEICO: 800-841-3000
- Progressive: 800-776-4737
- American Family Insurance: 800-692-6326
- MetLife: 800-854-6011
- Erie Insurance: 800-367-3743
- Auto-Owners Insurance: 888-252-4626
- Amica Mutual Insurance: 800-242-6422
- Cincinnati Insurance Company: 877-242-2544
- Encompass Insurance Company: 800-588-7400
- Shelter Insurance Group: 800-743-5837
- COUNTRY Financial: 866-268-6879
- Horace Mann: 800-999-1030
- The Hanover Insurance Company: 800-628-0250
- Sentry Insurance: 800-638-8763
- Foremost Insurance Company: 800-527-3907
- American National Property & Casualty Company: 800-333-2860
- Assurant: 800-358-0600
- MAPFRE Insurance: 877-224-5677
- Kemper Corporation: 888-252-2799
- The General Insurance: 800-280-1466
- National General Insurance: 800-468-3466
- Dairyland Insurance Company: 800-334-0090
- Bristol West Insurance Group: 800-274-7865
- Grange Insurance Association: 800-247-2643
- CSAA Insurance Group: 800-922-8228
- Plymouth Rock Assurance: 844-346-1225
- SafeAuto Insurance: 800-723-3288
- The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company: 800-472-1866
- AssuranceAmerica: 800-450-7857
- Infinity Insurance Companies: 800-334-1661
- American Strategic Insurance: 866-274-5677
- Cypress Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 877-560-5224
- Tower Hill Insurance Group: 800-342-3407
- Universal Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 800-425-9113
- Florida Peninsula Insurance Company: 877-994-8368
- Security First Insurance Company: 877-581-4862
- People’s Trust Insurance Company: 877-333-1230
- Southern Oak Insurance Company: 877-900-2280
- American Integrity Insurance Company: 866-277-9871
- Heritage Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 855-415-7120
- Centauri Insurance: 866-318-4113
- TypTap Insurance Company: 844-289-7968
- Edison Insurance Company: 888-683-7971
- Prepared Insurance Company: 877-313-1824
- Anchor Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 844-365-5588
- St. Johns Insurance Company: 800-748-2030
- American Traditions Insurance Company: 866-561-3433
- ASI Preferred Insurance Corp: 866-274-5677
- First Protective Insurance Company: 877-744-5224
- Florida Family Insurance Company: 888-486-4663
- Federated National Insurance Company: 800-420-7075
- United Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 800-861-4370
- Homeowners Choice Property & Casualty Insurance Company: 866-324-3138
- Southern Fidelity Insurance Company: 866-874-7342
- American Bankers Insurance Company: 800-245-1505
- American Modern Insurance Group: 800-375-2075
- Assurant Specialty Property: 800-358-0600
- Balboa Insurance Group: 800-854-6115
- Bankers Insurance Group: 800-765-970
For additional support or contact numbers, visit your insurance provider’s website or call their general claims line.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Future Risks
After recovering from a wildfire, take steps to protect yourself from future risks:
- Upgrade Your Insurance: Ensure you have adequate coverage, including extended replacement cost and debris removal.
- Harden Your Home: Implement fire-resistant landscaping, install ember-resistant vents, and use non-combustible building materials.
- Participate in the Ready! Set! Go! Program:
- Ready: Prepare your home by creating defensible space, removing flammable vegetation, and using fire-resistant building materials. These steps help to reduce the risk of fire spreading to your property.
- Set: Develop a wildfire action plan, assemble an emergency supply kit, and stay informed about local fire conditions and alerts.
- Go: Be prepared to evacuate immediately when a wildfire approaches. Acting early can save lives and reduce confusion during an emergency.
The Ready! Set! Go! program is offered by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and provides valuable resources and guidance for wildfire preparedness. For more information, visit the program’s official page at lafd.org.
We understand that navigating the aftermath of a wildfire can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to be your trusted resource, offering guidance, support, trusted referrals, and expertise every step of the way. Whether you need help understanding your options, accessing vital resources, or preparing for future risks, we’re committed to serving you with care and dedication. Reach out to us anytime—your recovery is our priority. If you need to explore available rentals in the South Bay, you can start your search by clicking here.