We are heartbroken and in shock to see our beautiful towns ravaged by the Palisades, Eaton, Woodley, Hurst and Lidia fires. There isn’t much we can do but at a minimum, we can provide some guidance on how to navigate the next steps, specifically as it relates to insurance claims. Feel free to reach out to us if you’ve lost your home or been forced to evacuate and would like some additional guidance.
- Please Be Safe Before Returning Home
- Wait for Official Clearance: Only return to your property after authorities have confirmed it is safe to do so.
- Wear Protective Gear: Equip yourself with masks, gloves, and sturdy footwear to protect against hazards like ash, debris, and structural damage.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider As Soon as You Can
- Report the Damage: Notify your insurer immediately to begin the claims process.
- Request Emergency Funds: If you need financial assistance for temporary living expenses, ask for an advance on your claim.
- Document All Damage
- Take Photos and Videos: Record detailed images and videos of your property and belongings to support your insurance claim. Insurance companies will do their best to avoid paying out money—keep that in mind.
- List Your Losses: Create an inventory of damaged or destroyed items, including descriptions, estimated values, and purchase details if available.
- Secure Your Property Against Further Damage
- Prevent Additional Harm: Protect your home by covering broken windows or using tarps on exposed areas. Many insurance policies require these measures.
- Save Receipts: Keep track of any temporary repairs or expenses; you may be eligible for reimbursement.
- Understand Your Insurance Policy
- Review Coverage: Familiarize yourself with the policy’s limits, deductibles, and specific provisions related to wildfire damage.
- Check for Living Expense Coverage: Determine if your policy includes additional living expenses (ALE) for temporary housing during repairs.
- Keep Detailed Records
- Track Communication: Maintain a log of all conversations with your insurance company, noting dates, times, and discussion points.
- Organize Documents: Store claim numbers, adjuster contact details, estimates, and other related paperwork in one place.
- Be Wary of Scammers
- Verify Contractors: Hire licensed and insured professionals for repairs or cleanup. Research their credentials and check reviews or references.
- Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Be cautious of contractors asking for significant payments in advance, as scammers often target disaster survivors.
- Stay on Top of Deadlines and Claim Requirements
- File Claims Promptly: Most insurance policies have strict deadlines for reporting damages, so act quickly to meet these timelines.
- Follow Up Regularly: Check in with your insurer to ensure your claim is progressing and to address any outstanding requests.
- Review Financial and Mortgage Obligations
- Notify Your Lender: Inform your mortgage provider about property damage, as they may need updates on repairs and insurance proceedings.
- Explore Payment Relief Options: Some lenders offer temporary relief or loan forbearance in the aftermath of disasters. Reach out to discuss your options if needed.
- Approach Initial Insurance Offers Carefully – Contact MSD for Guidance
- Evaluate Offers: Take time to review the insurance company’s valuation of damages to ensure it fully covers your losses. This is where attorneys can help and pushback against unreasonable tactics from insurance companies.
Avoid Signing Too Soon or Without Legal Review: Don’t sign a release when accepting payments unless you’re certain it reflects the full extent of your claim and after you’ve spoken to an attorney.
