Home and business owners are not the only ones affected by wildfire damage in California; many victims suffer losses while living in rental units, such as rented apartments and condos. Renters may be entitled to financial compensation for their damaged or destroyed personal property and other losses after a serious wildfire. If you were affected by the recent LA wildfires, contact us for experienced Eaton Fire litigation.
Does Renter’s Insurance Cover Wildfire Damage?
If you have a renter’s insurance policy, this will typically pay for wildfire damage that impacted your personal belongings that were within the rental unit. Renter’s insurance covers damage to electronics, clothing, furniture and other personal items. It can also cover costs related to a necessary evacuation, such as hotel bills or travel costs. However, there is an exception if the fire damage was caused by arson, or the intentional setting of the fire. Renter’s insurance also will not cover damage to the rental unit or property itself, such as fire damage to the structure of the building. Finally, if you were living with others who were not listed on the policy, your renter’s insurance will not cover their belongings.
Liability Lawsuit for Wildfire Damage as a Renter in California
A claim with your insurance provider might not be your only choice for recovering financial compensation after a wildfire as a renter. If an investigation finds that the fire was started by an individual or entity, such as a negligent utility company, you may have grounds to file a claim or lawsuit against that party. To receive compensation from another party, you must prove fault as the claimant. Most wildfire cases take the form of mass torts, which involve multiple plaintiffs who have been harmed by the same defendant. With assistance from a California wildfire litigator, you can establish grounds for your claim using evidence and secure fair financial compensation for your losses. Historically, utility companies found at fault for California wildfires, such as PG&E, have been ordered to pay restitution to renters with damaged possessions or who were displaced due to the fire. You may qualify for this type of compensation, which is typically calculated based on the square footage of the rental unit and what property was destroyed.
How to File a Wildfire Damage Claim as a Renter
If you wish to pursue financial compensation for your wildfire losses as a renter in California, start by contacting an attorney. These cases can be complicated and may require legal assistance to navigate. Hiring a lawyer increases your chances of securing fair and full compensation for your losses instead of accepting a partial settlement from an insurance provider. Your attorney can help you with each step of the filing process, which often includes confusing paperwork, extensive documentation of your losses and injuries, and short deadlines. Your lawyer will file an insurance claim or wildfire lawsuit on your behalf while you focus on rebuilding your life.
Wildfire Claims for Injured Renters
A wildfire may have done more than just destroy your property and force you to relocate as a renter; if you could not evacuate in time, you may have also suffered serious injuries. In this situation, you may be entitled to financial compensation beyond the replacement or repair of damaged belongings. You could receive payment for your past and future medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. You have rights as a renter who was affected by a recent California wildfire. Work with an experienced wildfire attorney at Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian to maximize your recovery in a vulnerable time. Contact us at (949) 831-6611 for a free consultation.