Wildfires are incredibly devastating, with the power to destroy property, land and lives. With recent blazes such as the Palisades and Altadena/Pasadena Fires, many Californians are left wondering how to recover financial compensation for their damages. If you have been affected by a recent wildfire, these steps may aid you in the recovery process and are recommended by our Eaton Fire lawyers.
Report Your Losses Without Delay
Homeowners insurance policies often come with reporting requirements and tight deadlines, making it important to file your wildfire damage claim as soon as possible. Contact your homeowners insurance provider right away if your home or property sustains damage. During your initial conversation, do not downplay or underestimate your losses. Be careful what you say, as statements such as “The damage isn’t that bad,” could hurt your claim. Your initial conversation should simply be to give notice of your wildfire-related losses to your insurance agent. Then, take the time to gather and submit more information.
Understand Your Rights
Read the language of your homeowners insurance policy to fully understand your wildfire damage coverage. If you have questions about your coverage, don’t be afraid to ask your insurance agent or broker. You should fully understand the insurance benefits to which you are entitled under your policy.
Document Your Wildfire Losses
Once it is safe to do so and you have gotten the go-ahead from local law enforcement, return to your property to document the damage. Take photographs and videos of all damage from the wildfire. Compile these with any images you have of your home and its contents from before the fire. Create a comprehensive inventory of all damaged items and their estimated values. Gather any receipts you have documenting your purchases. Keep all receipts from living expenses while you are displaced, as well, which may include hotel stays, meals and transportation. If your business was interrupted by wildfire damage, collect evidence of your profit losses.
Protect Yourself During Insurance Claim Negotiations
After you initiate a wildfire claim with your homeowners insurance company, it is important to protect your rights during conversations and settlement negotiations. This starts with understanding that the insurance company does not want to maximize your payout. Insurance carriers care more about their bottom lines than the well-being of their clients. Throughout your claim, be wary of what you say to the insurance claims adjuster. Get multiple estimates of how much your property repairs will cost from licensed contractors. If you are offered a quick settlement, wait to accept until you fully understand the value of your losses and have spoken to a California wildfire lawyer in your area.
Know When to Hire an Attorney
As a wildfire victim, you could qualify for financial compensation for your property repairs, replacement of destroyed belongings, physical injuries, medical bills, living expenses and more. You may be eligible for compensation not only from your homeowners insurance policy but from a lawsuit against a responsible utility company, in some circumstances. This may include compensation for pain and suffering. The best way to maximize your financial recovery after a California wildfire is by consulting with an attorney. At Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian, our team of wildfire attorneys has years of experience in this practice area. We fight for justice and the financial compensation that our clients deserve using personalized legal strategies. Request your free wildfire consultation today to learn more about the recovery process.