The Palisades Fire in Topanga, California Continues to Rage
Firefighters are battling record-breaking fires in Southern California that have already burned through 40,000 acres and destroyed over 12,300 structures. With 88,000 residents under evacuation orders and an additional 89,000 on notice, the insured losses from these wildfires are estimated to exceed $20 billion.
Amidst the chaos, experts advise affected residents to kickstart the insurance process by filing their claim as quickly as possible, even without all the necessary information. Due to the high volume of applications, insurers may take longer than usual to process claims, making early action crucial.
If your home has been affected by the wildfires, whether you rent or own, here are seven steps to take immediately:
1. File a claim first, assess damage later
2. Inquire about ‘loss of use’ coverage
3. Keep receipts and document everything
4. Turn off utilities
5. Contact your auto insurer
6. Consider property tax relief
7. Seek local aid opportunities
For those without insurance coverage, President Joe Biden has announced a one-time payment of $770 through FEMA for wildfire victims. Additionally, FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program may provide funds for temporary housing. Local support groups, workshops, and charities are also available to assist with recovery efforts in the impacted areas.