If your home was partially damaged by a wildfire but not fully destroyed, your insurance claim will look different from someone who suffered a total loss. It is important not to underestimate the value of your wildfire claim, however, as this could lead to you accepting an inadequate settlement offer based on what it will actually cost to repair, rebuild and recover.
Home Repairs
You have the right to file a claim with your property insurance provider for the partial loss of a home caused by wildfire damage. You do not need to have experienced a total loss for a valid claim. Review the details of your homeowners insurance policy to see what is covered. In general, the average policy covers the following types of wildfire damage:
- Dwelling coverage: pays to repair or rebuild the structure of your home.
- Other structures: pays for damage caused to outbuildings, such as sheds and detached garages.
- Landscaping: pays for lost trees, flowers, shrubbery and other landscaping elements.
- Personal property: covers damaged or destroyed belongings inside the home.
- Debris removal: pays to remove fire-damaged materials from your property.
- Ordinance coverage: covers any required updates to meet new building codes.
Your property insurance carrier should cover costs such as structural repairs, roofing repairs, HVAC cleaning, furniture replacements, interior renovations and other expenses necessary for the repair of your partially damaged home. However, it is important to also factor in the “invisible” costs of wildfire damage before you accept a settlement.
Invisible Losses
Wildfires are so destructive because, in addition to the fire itself, affected property can suffer irreversible damage from smoke, ash and the water used to extinguish the fire. If you need to file a claim for wildfire damage for the partial loss of a home, do not forget to include your invisible losses and hidden costs, such as:
- Smoke damage to personal belongings or structures
- Water damage, including mold
- Property value decreases (even after repairs)
- Losses due to your affected community
- Anxiety, stress, depression and emotional losses
Even if you did not fully lose your home, you and your family may have suffered significant physical, emotional and financial losses due to a wildfire. Be sure to consider all “named perils” that are included in your policy’s coverage as part of your claim for full compensation.
Temporary Relocation
Your home may be unlivable during wildfire damage repairs. If you need to relocate and find temporary housing during construction, include these “additional living expenses” as part of your wildfire claim. This can include a hotel or short-term rental, per diem food and supplies, new clothing, mileage, storage or pet boarding fees, and utilities at the new location.
Tips for Filing Your Partial Loss Wildfire Claim
When it is safe to return home after a wildfire, it is critical to thoroughly document the damage and losses your home has suffered. Take pictures and videos of your property. Create a master inventory list of everything that has suffered damage, along with their values. You have a responsibility to minimize your losses, meaning to reduce the potential for further damage.
If part of your home has collapsed or windows have broken, for example, cover exposed areas to prevent additional weather damage. Otherwise, an insurance company may deny your claim based on “failure to mitigate damages.” When you are ready to seek fair compensation so that you can start to rebuild after a partial loss, file a claim with your homeowners insurance company. Be aware, however, that the insurer will want to minimize your settlement as much as possible. If you are in this situation following last year’s Eaton and Altadena fires, do not accept a quick settlement until discussing your case with an Eaton wildfire attorney.