10 Insurance Steps to Take After a Wildfire Loss

Our deepest sympathies go out to all those who are affected by the wildfires in Southern California. We recognize that securing insurance has become increasingly difficult, leaving some homes uninsured while many others face reduced coverage and higher deductibles for fire damage.

If you have insurance, you may have questions about coverage, claims, and repairs. Bessemer’s insurance experts share recommendations for actions you can take.

1. Contact your insurance agent or insurer as soon as possible
   
   One of the first steps to take after a disaster is to notify your insurance company. Provide them with your policy number and updated contact information. Many insurers have dedicated claims lines that can expedite the process (see Exhibit 1 for contact details). It’s also helpful to establish a point of contact at your insurer who can assist you throughout your claim.
2. Keep detailed records of all insurer communications
   
   Maintaining accurate records of all interactions with your insurer is critical. Start a diary or log where you can note the dates, times, and outcomes of every phone call, email, or meeting. This record can be invaluable if questions or disputes arise later.
3. Document damages
   
   One of the most important steps in filing an insurance claim is to thoroughly document the damage to your property. Use your phone to take clear photographs and videos of all fire-damaged areas, both inside and outside your home. These visuals can provide powerful evidence to support your claim. Additionally, create a detailed inventory of damaged or lost items, noting:
   • The date of purchase.
   • Receipts or proof of ownership.
   • An estimated replacement value.
   • This comprehensive documentation will streamline your claim process and ensure you receive appropriate compensation.
4. Save receipts for all expenses related to the recovery process
   
   Having detailed records of expenses will simplify the reimbursement process and reduce potential delays in your claim. Some examples of expenses include:
   • Temporary housing and evacuation costs.
   • Food and transportation.
   • Repairs and cleanup, including smoke and soot remediation.
   • Homeowners association (HOA) loss assessments for shared property damage.
5. Secure temporary lodging and request evacuation reimbursement
   
   If your home is uninhabitable due to fire damage, arrange temporary accommodations as soon as possible. Insurers generally cover additional living expenses, including rental residences, food, and transportation. If you were required to evacuate due to a mandatory order, your insurer may also reimburse evacuation-related costs, such as hotel stays or meals. Be sure to retain all receipts for these expenses.
6. Check for loss assessment coverage
   
   If you live in a community with an HOA or in a condominium building, review your policy for loss assessment coverage. This coverage can help with your share of costs if the HOA assesses members for damages to shared property, such as clubhouses, pools, or fencing. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage and provide any relevant HOA assessments.
7. Obtain written repair estimates
   
   Before starting official repairs, request a written estimate of costs from contractors. Share these estimates with your insurer for approval. Avoid signing any contracts until you are confident the insurer has approved both the scope and the costs.
8. Begin fire damage cleanup 
   
   The aftermath of a wildfire often includes smoke and soot damage, which requires specialized cleaning. Contact a disaster remediation company to begin the process. In many cases, this cleanup can start before the adjuster surveys the property, provided no permanent repairs are undertaken.
9. Delay permanent repairs until inspection 
   
   While it’s important to secure your property against further damage, please refrain from making permanent repairs until your insurer has inspected the damage and authorized the work. Instead, focus on temporary repairs, such as covering broken windows or tarping roofs, to protect your home while awaiting the adjuster’s visit.
10. Report additional damages
    
    If hidden damage is uncovered during the repair process, notify your insurer promptly. Working closely with your contractor and insurer can help resolve discrepancies and ensure all damages are covered.

Conclusion

The claims process can be overwhelming, especially in the aftermath of a disaster. Don’t hesitate to contact your Bessemer client advisor or insurance agent for support as you navigate this difficult time and seek to maximize your coverage.

Exhibit 1: Major Insurers’ Claim Telephone Numbers  

• Allstate: 800-255-7828
• Amica: 800-242-6422
• AIG Private Select Group: 888-760-9195
• Berkley One: 855-663-8551
• California Fair Plan: 800-339-4099 
• Cincinnati Private Client: 877-242-2544 – Press option 4
• Chubb: 800-252-4670 – Press option 1, then option 3
• GEICO: 800-841-2964
• Hartford: 800-243-5860
• Liberty Mutual: 800-225-2467 
• Nationwide: 855-473-6410
• Progressive: 800-776-4737
• PURE: 888-813-7873
• Safeco: 800-332-3226
• State Farm: 800-732-5246
• Travelers: 1-800-252-4633 – Press option 1, option 2, then option 2 again
• Vault: 1-844-388-5677
• USAA: 1-800-531-8722