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Wildfires: insurance and recovery resources

Following a wildfire or other disaster, getting back to normal can take some time. To assist in the recovery process, the Triple-I has compiled useful information around post-disaster safety, insurance coverage questions, and detailed guidance on how to file a claim.

Safety and resources for recovery

Following a wildfire, new perils such as downed trees and power lines, hotspots and ash can pose risks. And if you have evacuated, it might not be safe to go back home. The following articles provide information and guidance to keep you and your loved ones safe in the aftermath.

Insurance for Wildfires 

Wildfire Facts and Statistics for Reporters

What insurance covers

Damage caused by fire and smoke is covered under standard homeowners, renters and business owners insurance policies and under the optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy. Water losses, or damage caused by fire fighters while extinguishing a fire, is also covered under these policies.

In California, the California Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan Association, the state’s property insurer of last resort, covers residential and commercial properties located in brush and wildfire areas.

In the aftermath of a wildfire or other natural disaster, policyholders may have questions about the insurance process, including what is covered and what isn’t. Here are some answers to many of these common questions about home, auto, and other coverages.

Articles:

Tips for wildfire insurance claims

Insurance for wildfires

What is covered by standard homeowners insurance?

Renters insurance

Co-op or condo insurance

Mobile home insurance

Basic auto insurance

Boat insurance

Environmental liability insurance

Spoiled food

Mudslides often follow wildfire; prepare, know insurance implications

Claims

After a disaster, you want to get back to normal as soon as possible, and your insurance company wants to help. You may get multiple checks from your insurer as you make temporary repairs, permanent repairs and replace damaged belongings. Here’s what you need to know about claims payments, including how to file a claim, what to expect during the process.

Articles:

The road to recovery: 3 key steps to simplify filing wildfire damage claims

Understanding the insurance claims payment process

How to file a homeowners claim

Understanding your insurance deductibles

How is the settlement amount determined?

What is a public adjuster?

How to file a wildfire claim in California

Videos:

Tips for wildfire insurance claims

Wildfire reality check

Build for wildfire resilience

Wildfire evacuation: Insurance for additional living expenses

Additional resources

Many national organizations and ones in your state may offer resources for recovery that are helpful to you. The following is a general list, followed by specific resources for those affected by wildfires.

Frequently asked questions about FEMA disaster assistance

DisasterAssistance.gov

FEMA Helpline: 1-800- FEMA (1-800-621-3362)

TTY 1-800-462-7585

711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) 1-800-621-3362

SBA Disaster Loans & Grants

Institute for Business & Home Safety

Red Cross: wildfire safety

Firewise USA

Local resources and insurers 

California:

Colorado:

Oregon:

Washington:

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