LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – Thousands of Southern Californians are facing the devastating reality that many of their most important assets, their homes and property, were destroyed in the Palisades and Eaton fires.
The shock and grief may still be fresh and their safety may no longer be an issue, but the question is:
insurance claim
Homeowners insurance is not legally required in California. However, most financial institutions require it.
The first step for wildfire victims is to contact their insurance company to report the damage and begin the claim process. To that end, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is calling on insurance companies to act quickly to help those affected.
“Right now is a time to focus on my family and my health. The number one thing I have to worry about is insurance,” Lara said at a press conference Friday morning.
The Insurance Commission can be reached at 1-800-927-4357. We help fire victims navigate the process, and we also assist the uninsured.
While many homeowners are familiar with coverage for their property and personal effects, it’s important to note that your insurance policy may also cover costs associated with evacuation.
The committee is planning two support workshops with government representatives and insurance companies. The first date will be Jan. 18-19 at Santa Monica College and the following weekend, Jan. 25-26 at Pasadena City College.
10 Tips for Wildfire Insurance Claims
The California Insurance Commission offers the following advice for wildfire victims preparing to file an insurance claim.
Obtain a complete copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy, including the declaration page. Be aware of additional living expense limits and manage your ALE costs with the long-term rebuilding process in mind. Track all expenses incurred while living in a different location away from home. Document conversations with insurance companies/adjusters about insurance claims and policy limitations in a dedicated “claims diary.” Ask at least one licensed contractor to quote or bid on the cost of rebuilding your home to get a reasonable idea of the actual cost compared to your coverage limits. Call the Department of Health Hotline at (800) 927-4357. You can also file a complaint online. Understand that you can buy or rebuild elsewhere and still get the benefit of the full replacement cost. Assess your situation. Don’t rush into making decisions about contractors, attorneys, or public adjusters. Don’t think you’re under-compensated based on general information you hear about construction costs or other general opinions. Assess whether you need a public adjuster or attorney to assist you with your claim.
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What happens if I cancel?
Insurance companies in the Golden State are repeatedly canceling or not renewing policies because they say it’s hurting business.
In response, Governor Lara has given insurance companies a one-year moratorium on canceling or not renewing home insurance policies in “certain areas within or adjacent to a fire area after the governor declares a state of emergency.” Announced. This includes the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire evacuation zones.
Another order protects people in wildfire zones who received a nonrenewal notice within 90 days before the fire first exploded.
“If you receive a homeowners insurance non-renewal notice between October 9th and January 7th, your insurance company should do the right thing and keep you as a valued policyholder,” Lara said. say.
FEMA assistance
The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides assistance to individuals and communities affected by wildfires through a wide range of programs.
The Personal Assistance Program provides grants for temporary housing, necessary home repairs, and uninsured personal property loss. Other needs assistance programs also cover medical, dental, funeral, and other disaster-related expenses. Wildfire victims can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
President Joe Biden declared the wildfires a major disaster, paving the way for FEMA assistance.
Los Angeles County Resources
Los Angeles County’s 211 Services provides comprehensive support to wildfire victims, including emergency and crisis services, housing and homelessness assistance, food assistance, medical services, and mental health support. The county also provides employment and financial assistance, family services, and legal assistance.
Fire victims can access these resources by dialing 2-1-1 or by visiting the 211 LA County website at 211la.org.
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