Southern California Fires – Information for homeowners
The ashes are still falling. The flames are still shooting Skyward. And weary Southern California residents are wondering on whether they will see their home when the thick smoke clears. Many who know their homes have been burned to the ground as a result of raging forest fires are ready to file claims or have already saved them.
Anxiety for homeowners continues not only cares about the insurance, but to rebuild their homes. Lose your home and see your American Dream reduced to ashes before your eyes, and then watch it several times on television, can be demoralizing.
Difficult it can be to pick up the pieces and move forward, it is absolutely important for homeowners to look very closely at their coverage, make a list of what they have lost, and it is very important to contact their insurance company immediately. As with everything else is good and bad news.
The good news is that this procedure wildfire disaster could be easier and more straightforward than what consumers had to go through with Hurricane Katrina. While many insurance policies do not cover flooding, fire is covered by almost all policies. The bad news is that many homeowners quickly find that they do not buy enough coverage to rebuild their homes.
What will insurance cover?
According to an article in the Herald Tribune lawsuits piled up pretty quickly after the 2003 Southern California fires when consumers claimed that their insurers should have advised them to buy more coverage. But in April, says Times article, the courts sided with the insurer in an attempt by the first of these lawsuits. It does not bode well for the others. This is despite of the fact that people living in high fire risk areas already pay higher premiums than others.
Another interesting question that this article talking about is that in California, the law requires that insurers pay the bill for evacuation caused by the fires. In Katrina, people relied on the federal Government to give them money for hotel, food and other daily expenses. But here in California, insurers pay for everything.
The Aftermath – What now?
The largest challenge is obviously to the affected homeowners to get started on their insurance claims. Unfortunately, as with any disaster, some people try to take advantage of victims. That is why consumers must be ever vigilant even at a time when they are tired and depressed.
Here are some tips for consumers is based on Bay Area lawyer Jonathan Stein's latest blog:
– Document in detail all your losses. Start with damage to your structure and property. Capture everything you'regoing through it. If you use a video camera providing a continuous commentary, or if you are still taking a lot of notes. Includes everything – jewelry, gadgets, appliances and so further.
– Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Of course, they will be very busy with thousands of claims to deal with. Be patient and give them all the information you have. Once your adjustment arise, accompany him or her to go through to tell them what was damaged. Provide a copy of the list you have previously made. Ask for an estimate within 24 hours. And also check your alignment and make sure he or she is licensed through the California Department of Insurance. If you hire a lawyer, check his or her legitimacy through the California State Bar website.
– If you have structural damage, then you have to call a contractor. It is imperative that you call only a licensed contractor. There is an easy way to look up who is licensed and who is not – visit Contactor State License Board website.
– Always compare your estimate with the insurer's discretion. You should definitely have a licensed contractor carrying out repairs. Any differences should paid by the insurer.
– Again, if you get removed and will be asked to relocate to a hotel, keep your receipts. In the State of California, the insurance pay you for those costs
– Ask for everything in writing. Not be intimidated by your adjuster. If they say something that is not covered ask why it is not covered, and get them to put it in writing
– Finally, DO NOT sign on the dotted line until you understand what you accept and are convinced that you get the insurance benefits that you are entitled too.
Hire a Contractor
This can be tricky business especially when you are vulnerable and are busy to get back on your feet. The first step is to ensure that they are licensed. The California Department of Insurance indicates that when you get a solicitation, you ask for their pocket license and other identification.
Do not rush into signing a contract. Collect business cards, interview several contractors, collect bids and most importantly of all, make sure you read the fine print. Always beware contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money to make temporary repairs.
Be wary of any developer that tries to hurry to make a decision. Be careful of all contractors, suggesting that there are ways to cheat your insurance company. Do not pay any money out of pocket to "keep your place in line" with a contractor who says he will be able to come to your job sooner if he gets a deposit. Do not make an advance payment for materials.
Go local when it comes to developers. If there are problems later, it is easier to contact them. Again, put every little detail in writing. Be suspicious of door-to-door salesmen who lure you with a low or trying to push their services to you through your emotional state. Also, federal law mandates a three-day "cooling off" period for unsolicited door-to-door sales of more than a $ 25 value.
About the Author
John Bisnar is a partner at Newport Beach Personal Injury Law Firm Bisnar Chase. The Bisnar Chase law firm has dedicated their practice to victims of serious injuries due to defective products, negligence and malpractice. Visit http://www.bestattorney.com or call 888-265-0161
Renters Insurance
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