By John Quinlan, Managing Director and Head of Risk Management and Holly Stallons, Director, Risk Management
In the wake of a crisis, such as the recent California wildfires, those impacted face an overwhelming journey of recovery that demands resilience, strategic planning, and compassionate support. Taking proactive steps can make all the difference in ensuring safety and recovery. Here are 10 essential tips to guide you through the process.
Promptly Notify Your Insurance Carrier: Contact your insurance company and agent without delay to initiate your claim swiftly.
Secure a Copy of Your Policy: If you don’t have it already, request a copy of your insurance policies (home, auto, collections, etc.) for reference.
Key Coverage Inquiries: Inquire about essential coverage limits, including dwelling value, contents value, additional living expenses, rebuilding to code, and debris removal value.
Request Advance Payments (if necessary): Seek advance payments to cover immediate expenses like temporary housing, clothing, and food. Keep records of all emergency costs incurred during evacuation.
Precautionary Measures for Repairs: If urgent repairs are necessary, try to obtain approval in advance. Ensure any contractors you engage are approved by your insurer. Avoid signing any agreements guaranteeing payment without insurance confirmation.
Document Damages: Create a file containing pre-fire and post-fire photos or videos of your property for insurance purposes.
Preserve Evidence: Refrain from discarding any items damaged by the fire. If disposal is unavoidable, document them through photographs.
Compile a Detailed Inventory: Begin compiling a detailed inventory of damaged items, including descriptions, original purchase dates, and current replacement values.
Seek Reconstruction Estimates: Obtain estimates from reputable contractors for the reconstruction process. These estimates are crucial for insurance settlements. Your agent and carrier can make recommendations in your area.
Beware of Scams: Unfortunately, disasters attract fraudulent individuals. Stay vigilant against scammers and dishonest actors.
Recovering from a wildfire can be overwhelming, but implementing these proactive steps can significantly streamline the process. By staying organized, informed, and prepared, you can simplify your recovery journey and navigate the insurance claim process more efficiently, setting yourself up for rebuilding and renewal.
Contact Cresset to learn how we can help you safeguard your family and assets against future risks.
