Experiencing the devastating impact of a wildfire can be life-altering. The emotional and physical toll is immense, especially when you lose your home. After the January 2025 California wildfires, many residents will start to pick up the pieces. Kantor & Kantor LLP Insurance Attorneys offer some tips to help you navigate the aftermath of this disaster.
First Things First
Your safety and well-being are paramount. Take care of yourself and your family, and then see what you can do about your property.
- Seek Emergency Assistance: Various organizations support those affected by natural disasters. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local relief organizations may assist. Local chapters of the Red Cross and other nonprofits can offer shelter, food, and essential supplies.
- Find Temporary Housing: If your home is uninhabitable, seek temporary accommodation. This could be with family and friends or through local shelters. Your insurance policy may cover additional living expenses, so clarify what assistance you can receive.
- Connect with Recovery Resources: California provides numerous resources for wildfire recovery. Look for community recovery centers, where you can get information on available services and support. They can also help connect you with mental health resources, legal assistance, and financial aid.
Start Your Recovery Process
After basic needs are handled, it’s time to start over. As soon as you secure permission to return to your property safely, take the following steps:
Document the Damage
As you assess the damage, create a comprehensive record. Take photographs and videos of everything that was affected. This documentation will be helpful for insurance claims and obtaining assistance from disaster relief programs.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your homeowners’ insurance provider. They can guide you through the claims process and inform you about what is covered under your policy. Gather necessary documentation, including:
- A copy of your insurance policy
- Photos or videos of the damage (if possible)
- Lists of lost or damaged items
Begin the Cleanup Process
Do not begin debris removal or cleanup until you have documented the scene for your claims. Contact the EPA to coordinate cleanup efforts and the removal of hazardous materials. Sign up for debris removal on Los Angeles County’s recovery website. Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, masks, goggles, and sturdy clothing, while removing debris from your property.
What If My Homeowners Insurance Was Canceled Before the CA Wildfires?
Unfortunately, this happened to many California residents:
- In Pacific Palisades, about 10.03% of homeowners and fire policies were not renewed from 2020-2022.
- In Altadena, 8.15% of policies were not renewed from 2020-2022.
California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has banned insurance companies from canceling or not renewing policies for homeowners affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires for one year. He also wants to backdate that to October 9, 2024.
“This means that if you’ve received a non-renewal from your homeowners’ insurance between Oct. 9 and Jan. 7, essentially 90 days, your insurance company should do the right thing and retain you as a valued policyholder,” Lara said.
If your homeowners’ insurance was canceled before the California wildfires, here are some steps you can take:
- Review the Cancellation Notice: Understand the reason for the cancellation.
- Contact Your Insurer: Reach out to your former insurance company. Find out how they are responding to recent policyholders who have losses from the January 2025 wildfires.
- Consult a Legal Professional: If you are facing difficulties with your previous insurer or have questions about your rights, Kantor & Kantor’s California bad faith insurance lawyers can help you explore your options.
While losing your home in a wildfire is an unimaginable experience, support is available, and with time and persistence, you can rise from the ashes. Contact Kantor & Kantor LLP Insurance Attorneys to find out more. We have offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and San Jose, CA. Call 866-779-9638 or use the contact form to request a free consultation.
