California takes action to assist wildfire survivors
State officials have set in place several initiatives to help residents in the aftermath of the deadly Carr wildfires.
In response to July’s deadly Carr wildfires that have destroyed or damaged at least a thousand homes in northern California, state Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has set in place several initiatives to help assist and protect survivors in the recovery process.
The first action is a notice requesting insurers expedite claims handling procedures for wildfire damage claims, also requesting flexibility with deadlines and documentation requirements, which should result in more timely payments to policyholders.
The Department of Insurance explains under these expedited claims handling procedures, policyholders may receive advance payment for up to four months of additional living expenses, 25% of policy limits for personal property, and an expedited process for debris removal in order to not delay the rebuilding process.
These procedures also speed payment for damaged or destroyed vehicles and provide at least 30 days billing leniency for lost renewal notices for those who do not have the ability to have mail forwarded.
Related: The aftermath of wildfires: Insurance coverage questions answered
State of emergency
In a second course of action, Commissioner Jones issued a declaration of an emergency situation caused by the fires, which allows insurers to respond more quickly by using qualified out-of-state adjusters who work under the insurance company’s California license.
On Wednesday, Jones also directed the state’s Department of Insurance to issue a formal notice to all property insurers, independent insurance adjusters, and insurance agents and brokers to make sure all claims adjusters assigned to wildfire claims are properly trained on the California Unfair Practices Act, Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations, and all other laws relating to property and casualty insurance claims handling.
Related: 16 do’s and don’ts when you return home after a wildfire
Today, Jones will visit the wildfire zones in Shasta County and meet with wildfire survivors and insurers working to expedite claims at the Local Assistance Center where consumer services experts are stationed to assist victims.
“Survivors of these destructive wildfires need all the help we can provide,” Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones said in a statement. “We are focused on helping survivors, as they begin the long process of rebuilding their homes and their lives.”
The Department of Insurance advises policyholders to contact their insurance company and insurance agent to begin the claims process if they have not done so already. Residents and victims can also access further information by contacting the Department of Insurance Consumer hotline at 800-927-4357, or by visiting the Department’s website for tips and advice.
Related: California wildfires were terrible last year. Will this year be worse?