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:
Steps to Take After a Wildfire
Top Tips from the California Department of Insurance
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.
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
.A: Yes, in California, insurers are required to provide at least 30% of your dwelling coverage limit as an advance after a declared disaster.
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
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.
