As devastating wildfires continue to impact Los Angeles County, many residents are facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and homes. As your insurance partner, we want to provide you with crucial information and resources to help you through this challenging time. As always, if you have coverage through ALKEME our one of our partners, please contact us ASAP.

Understanding Your Coverage

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage caused by wildfires. However, it’s essential to review your specific policy to understand your coverage limits and any exclusions. Key components typically include:

• Dwelling coverage for rebuilding or repairing your home
• Personal property coverage for damaged or destroyed belongings
• Additional living expenses coverage for temporary housing

Steps to Take After a Wildfire

1. Ensure your safety first
2. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible
3. Document all damage with photos and videos
4. Create a detailed inventory of lost or damaged items
5. Keep all receipts for additional living expenses

Top Tips from the California Department of Insurance

1. Obtain a complete copy of your policy: Request a free copy of your residential homeowner’s insurance policy, including the declarations page, from your insurance company
2. Understand your Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage: Your time to collect ALE after a declared catastrophe is no less than 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months for delays beyond your control
3. Track additional expenses: Document all extra costs incurred from living away from your home, including temporary rent and additional mileage
4. Keep a claim diary: Record all conversations with your insurer or adjuster about your claim and policy limitations
5. Get independent estimates: Obtain at least one licensed contractor’s estimate on rebuilding costs to compare with your coverage limits
6. Seek help when needed: Call the Department of Insurance Hotline at (800) 927-4357 for assistance or to file a complaint
7. Know your rebuilding options: You can purchase or rebuild at another location while still receiving full replacement cost benefits, if included in your policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?A: While it’s best to file as soon as possible, California law requires insurers to accept wildfire claims for at least 24 months after the disaster.

Q: What if I don’t have enough coverage to rebuild?
A: Check if you have extended replacement cost coverage. If you’re still underinsured, explore options like FEMA assistance or SBA disaster loans. Don’t assume inadequate coverage based on general information; address your specific situation and contact the Department of Insurance for help if needed

.Q: Can I get an advance on my claim payment?
A: Yes, in California, insurers are required to provide at least 30% of your dwelling coverage limit as an advance after a declared disaster.

Q: What if I disagree with my insurance company’s assessment?
A: Consider hiring a public adjuster, but be aware of laws restricting their solicitation immediately after a disaster. Public adjusters must be licensed by the California Department of Insurance and cannot solicit business in a declared disaster area until 7 days after the event

Additional Resources

• Submit a California FAIR Plan Claim here: https://www.cfpnet.com/claims/ or by phone: 1 (800) 339-4099, option 2
• FEMA Disaster Assistance: Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362
• California Department of Insurance: Call (800) 927-4357 for assistance or visit their website
• Contractors State License Board: Call 1-800-321-2752 for publications on avoiding contractor problems

Small Business Resources

Businesses impacted from the wildfires from loss of property, loss of location or loss of sales. Funding resources are available to apply for now.

1) SBA (US Small Business Administration) Disaster Relief: SBA’s low-interest disaster loans to help homeowners, renters, and businesses of all sizes recover from current wildfire (updated January 2025)

Types of SBA disaster loans now available – to application CLICK HERE

• Home Disaster Loans: Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles.
• Business Physical Disaster Loans: Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
• Download a copy of the Wildfire Smoke Protection Plan here: CLICK HERE

2) FEMA: If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible with your insurance provider. FEMA assistance is available to help jumpstart your recovery if you have uninsured or underinsured damage. If insurance does not cover all your damage, FEMA may provide additional help. There are three ways to apply CLICK HERE

3) EDD – Laying off workers? Employees may be eligible for regular unemployment if they received a W-2 and meet any of these requirements:

• They are fully or partially unemployed because of a layoff, furlough, reduced wages, or reduced hours

• Past unemployment claim expired

To apply, employees can CLICK HERE

Beware of Scams

Be cautious of unsolicited offers for repairs or adjusting services. Verify credentials and don’t rush into signing any contracts. Report suspected fraud to the California Department of Insurance. Remember, we’re here to support you through this difficult time. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns about your policy or claim process.