Southern California Wildfires: Insurance Recovery Guidance
By: Richard C. Giller, Esq.
The ongoing wildfires in Southern California have brought unimaginable devastation and heartbreak to our communities, and Greenspoon Marder extends our deepest sympathies to all of those impacted. We understand the immense challenges you face, from property loss and displacement to navigating the complexities of insurance claims and recovery.
During this difficult time, please know that our Insurance Recovery & Counseling group is here to provide support and guidance. We are committed to helping you understand your rights, assist you in effectively managing your insurance claims, and begin the process of rebuilding your lives and businesses. Once you have ensured the health and safety of you and your family, here are a few tips to help you navigate the start of your insurance recovery process:
Call your insurance agent to get copies of every insurance policy that might possibly provide coverage (homeowners, auto, umbrella, etc.).
Start an insurance recovery diary, which should include a list of who you spoke to, when, what number you called, and a summary of the substance of your conversations.
Find affordable temporary housing—your insurance policy likely allows for up to 24 months of additional living expenses (ALE) and your carrier should find a similar-sized home in a similar type of neighborhood for you to live in while you and your family are displaced.
Keep copies of every receipt while you are displaced.
Once you’re allowed back into your neighborhood—but before cleanup begins—photograph and Inventory the damage to your home and personal property.
Be wary of on-the-spot, global, settlement offers, and do not rush into signing any contracts for repairs or debris removal until you know the status of your insurance claim.
Businesses should document their business interruption and contingent business interruption losses in addition to implementing the other tips provided here.
Follow the notice and proof of loss requirements of your policies and immediately place every issuing insurance company on notice of a claim.
Inquire about possible FEMA and SBA assistance.
Vigorously pursue your insurance claim by keeping in constant contact with your insurance company or companies. Be prepared to fight for your rights and reach out to get help if you feel like you’re being treated unfairly.
Should you need additional assistance, please reach out to our Insurance Recovery group at (323) 880-4520. Our team is here to support you during this difficult time.
* This Greenspoon Marder LLP post is issued for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed or used as general legal advice nor a solicitation of any type. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision. Before you decide, ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.
About Greenspoon Marder Greenspoon Marder LLP is a full-service law firm with over 225 attorneys and more than 20 office locations across the United States. With operations from Miami to New York and from Denver to Los Angeles, our firm attracts some of the nation’s top talent in key markets and innovation hubs. Our core practice areas include Real Estate, Litigation, and Transactional Services, complemented by the capabilities of a full-service firm. Greenspoon Marder has maintained a spot on The American Lawyer’s Am Law 200 as one of the top law firms in the U.S. since 2015, and our goal is to provide exceptional client service by developing a thorough understanding of each client’s business needs and objectives in order to provide strategic, cost-effective solutions.
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This Greenspoon Marder LLP Client Alert is issued for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed or used as general legal advice nor a solicitation of any type. Please contact the author(s) or your Greenspoon Marder LLP contact if you have any questions regarding the currency of this information. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision. Before you decide, ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.
