LA Wildfires: What To Do if Your Home Burns Down

The wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles have left heartbreak and destruction in their wake. Families have seen their homes burn; their memories turn to ash. Nearly 10,000 structures—homes, garages, cars—are gone or severely damaged. These fires haven’t spared anyone. Celebrities like Paris Hilton, Mel Gibson, Billy Crystal, and others took to social media and news sources outlining the destruction the Los Angeles Fires have brought on the city.

AccuWeather predicts the damage could soar between $135 billion and $150 billion. For many, that number feels distant, but for those facing the smoke and flames, the reality is deeply personal.

If you have been affected by these devastating fires, here are steps you can take now, and resources available to help you:

Document Everything

Even if your home has been affected, documenting the damage is crucial. Take photos and videos of the damage if it’s safe to do so. Focus on destroyed or damaged items, as this will help when filing your insurance claim. The more details you have, the easier it will be to prove your losses. Start from the outside of your property and then inside, and write down EVERY single item of your belongings and possessions:

• Exterior: From a burnt vehicle, shrubs, trees, plants, and landscaping
• Interior: Kitchen utensils to every other item within the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms that you can remember. A detailed Inventory List is crucial for maximizing the coverages in your policy. ALSO, keep a diary of who you contacted at the insurance company, who you spoke with, when (date and time). Keep a log of the email trail with the insurance carrier as well.

Keep Every Receipt

Once you’ve evacuated, keep every receipt. Hotel stays, meals, clothing, and emergency supplies all add up. Your insurance may cover these expenses, but only if you can prove them. These records will be crucial for your claim.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

To file a claim for a house fire, contact your homeowner’s insurance company immediately to report the loss. Write down the names of anyone you speak to at your insurance company, along with the date, time, and details of the conversation. Always follow up with an email to confirm what was discussed. These records could protect you from future disputes. 

Legal Protections for Fire Victims

California law stands behind fire victims. Insurance companies are required to give you an immediate payment to cover at least four months of rent or Additional Living Expenses (ALE and or Loss of Use). Generally, with this type of catastrophe, insurance companies also must pay for one-third of your estimated property damage upfront, even before inspecting your home. If your insurer hesitates, remind them of these legal protections. You have the right to ask for this in your time of need as an insurer.

Rebuilding or Starting Fresh?

Whether you plan to rebuild or start fresh elsewhere, your insurance may cover both options. You can rebuild using your existing coverage or apply it toward buying a new home. Extended replacement and building code upgrade coverage can help you cover additional costs if laws require updates during construction. Choose what you feel is right for you and your family.

Seek Professional Help

Handling an insurance claim can be overwhelming, especially when coping with loss. You might want to hire a public adjuster or a lawyer. These professionals understand how to negotiate with insurance companies and can often recover more money for you. Yes, they receive a percentage of your settlement, but their expertise can be worth it. Initially, you may not need the help of a public adjuster or lawyer for your insurance claim with your own insurance company. However, if you are unable to obtain money, living expenses, or the full value of your coverage, if the entire home is destroyed, then you should contact a lawyer for advice and assistance.

Resources and Support

There are several resources available to help wildfire victims:

• FEMA: The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides disaster assistance and can help with housing, medical expenses, and other needs.
• SBA - U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Relief: The SBA may assist homeowners, renters, and business owners with loans and/or grants.
• State of California: The Governor's Office will have resources for fire victims.
• Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers shelter, food, and other assistance to those affected by disasters.
• Local Charities: Numerous local organizations in Los Angeles offer support, including food, clothing, and financial assistance.
• Wildfire Recovery Centers: These centers provide information on available resources, including housing, medical care, and financial assistance.

Contact a Los Angeles wildfire attorney if you feel like you are not getting anywhere with the claims process or if you feel you are being taken advantage of

If you lost your home during the Los Angeles wildfires, you have recourse. As fellow evacuees, the team at OAKS LAW FIRM understands the uncertainty that follows a disaster like this, and we’re here to stand by your side.

Whether you’re dealing with a complete loss of your home, partial loss, smoke damage, burn injuries, or other losses related to your house fire, we can help you get the resources you need and help you on your road to rebuild after this tragic loss you have experienced. Together we will rebuild and come out stronger.

Contact us today, and let our dedicated team fight for the justice and compensation you deserve during these difficult times.

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