What to Avoid After Wildfires: A California Homeowner’s Guide

If you're a California resident whose home or business was hit by wildfires, hold off on signing any paperwork right away. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara warns that rushing into decisions can lead to missing out on full compensation. After ensuring safety and staying clear of affected areas, homeowners should take advantage of a three-day cooling-off period before dealing with public adjusters.

Out-of-state adjusters might offer less than what your policy covers. By pausing and verifying the adjuster’s license through the California Department of Insurance, you can avoid fraud. It's crucial to have your home insurance policy handy and keep records of all conversations with insurers or adjusters. Insurance companies have been dropping or raising rates in fire-prone areas, but a law prevents them from dropping coverage within a year of a wildfire. Homeowners can also reduce the risk by ensuring their homes meet safety codes and are well-protected against flames.

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