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Insurance Issues For Those Affected By California Wildfires

The devastating wildfires in California have left countless people grappling with property damage and loss. In these challenging times, understanding the complexities of insurance claims becomes essential.

Schimmel & Parks, APLC, in Sherman Oaks, has 70-plus years of combined experience handling complex litigation matters. Our lawyers have a proven record of successfully guiding clients through the complexities of insurance claims, including those involving wildfire damages.

Understanding California Wildfire Insurance Claims

Filing an insurance claim for wildfire damage involves more than reporting damages. Policies have specific terms, including exclusions and limitations, that may affect your claim. Some examples of exclusions include:

  • Smoke and ash damage: Some insurers may deny claims for smoke or ash-related damage unless there is direct fire damage, even if the residue makes the home uninhabitable.
  • Secondary water damage: If a wildfire compromised your plumbing or structure, leading to later water damage, your policy may exclude coverage for the resulting issues, citing them as indirect losses.

California’s insurance landscape is governed by complex laws and regulations. For example:

  • Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage Protections: Under California law, insurers must provide fair ALE benefits when a wildfire forces policyholders to evacuate or renders their homes uninhabitable.
  • California Insurance Code Section 790.03 (Bad Faith Protections): This law prevents insurers from engaging in unfair claim settlement practices, such as failing to investigate a claim properly or unjustifiably denying coverage.

You can count on us to navigate the complex legal system on your behalf.

California Wildfires Insurance FAQs

Many homeowners and businesses face challenges when interpreting policy terms or responding to unfair decisions. Below, we address some of the most common questions.

What should I do if my insurance company denies my wildfire claim?

If your claim is denied, it is important to review the denial letter carefully to understand the insurer’s reasons. An attorney can help you assess the validity of the denial and explore options for appeal.

Can I sue my insurance company for bad faith if they delay or underpay my wildfire claim?

Yes. If an insurance company unreasonably delays or underpays your claim, you may have grounds to file a bad faith lawsuit. A lawyer can evaluate your case and hold the insurer accountable.

Contact Us

At Schimmel & Parks, APLC, we support the Sherman Oaks community and all Californians affected by wildfires. Call 818-922-8544 or contact us online today to discuss your case with our team.