Los Angeles Fire Resources

UPDATED AS OF 1/30/2025 @05:57 PM PST

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles County. 

We hope you all stay safe and follow the evacuation orders issued by authorities to avoid danger. 

The team at Fusco Orsini & Associates is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help with a claim or have any questions. We’re happy to assist, even if your inquiries concern a policy we do not service. 

Please feel free to get in touch.

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE

Once a state of emergency has been declared and a property is determined be a total loss, existing California insurance law requires certain advance payments to claimants which include:

  • Payment of Contents Without Inventory: Existing law requires insurance companies to advance funds for replacing personal property or contents in an amount that is 30 percent of the policy’s dwelling limit, up to $250,000, without requiring the policyholder to file an itemized claim. Insurers are required to automatically notify policyholders of this option upfront. After receiving the advance payment for contents, the policyholder can recover the full value of their destroyed personal property, up to their policy limits, by complying with documentation requirements.
  • Additional Living Expense (ALE) Advance Payment: Existing law requires insurers to provide their policyholders with an advance payment of no less than four months of living expenses. This also applies to California FAIR Plan policies, which use the term “FAIR Rental Value” instead of ALE
  • Commissioner Lara advises wildfire survivors of County debris removal program: As Los Angeles County announced the start of cleanup from the recent devastating wildfires, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara today informed wildfire survivors that the program will not impose out-of-pocket costs on policyholders over and above any insurance proceeds provided to the property owner for debris removal. The California Department of Insurance worked closely with local, state, and federal leaders to ensure that the program’s costs are not deducted from a policyholder’s primary insurance benefits needed to rebuild. Commissioner Lara has issued a Consumer Alert and Notice detailing how the program will interact with insurance — a benefit available to all eligible property owners who choose to participate in the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires Debris Removal Program.
  • Commissioner Lara creates first-ever public claims tracker to monitor claim amounts, payments, and provide transparency: Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara today announced the creation of a public consumer claims tracking system designed to provide essential data for consumers and the public, revealing that more than $4.2 billion has been paid out to wildfire survivors due to advance payment laws that he championed after previous wildfire catastrophes. Insurance company payouts are immediately helping people find housing and replace personal items. The amounts will grow as people begin the claims process, which includes rebuilding and debris removal.

FEDERAL

  • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering Disaster Loans for Los Angeles County victims of the wind and wildfire events. Home Disaster Loans, Business Disaster Loans, and Economic Injury Disaster Loans are all available programs through the SBA.
  • FEMA Disaster Assistance: Information on grants, loans, and recovery services. 

INSURANCE COMPANIES

  • California Fair Plan Claims Information: Claims FAQs
    • Report Online here. Requires policy number and MAILING zip code.
    • Available 24/7
    • On the phone by calling 1(800)339-4099, option 2
    • Available:
      • M-F, 8AM-5PM
      • Saturday, 1/18, 10AM-5PM
      • Sunday, 1/19, 10AM-1PM
      • It is expected that the FAIR PLAN will expand hours.
  • Safeco Insurance Mobile Response Unit: The MCRV will be onsite starting Sun., 1/12 at the following location for the Palisades/Eaton Fire:
    • Pasadena, CA: Kelley Jiggins Insurance, 455 El Molino
    • Sherman Oaks, CA: Momentous Insurance, 5990 Sepulveda Blvd Suite 550
    • Culver City, CA: HUB International, 600 Corporate Pointe Suite 600
  • Philadelphia Insurance Companies: PHLY has a comprehensive list of Emergency Mitigation Service contractors for your reference when damage and associated repairs are required. These contractors have worked with PHLY in the past and also come recommended by our policyholders.
    It is not mandatory that PHLY policyholders choose a vendor from this list. We recommend these contractors to provide superior service and work that is performed properly, with a sense of urgency. 
    • Reporting a Claim: PHLY’s Claim Center is available 24 hours a day to serve all customers reporting a claim. Please call us at 800-765-9749 and select option # 3 or report your loss using one of the following methods:
      Online: Report a Claim
      Fax: 800.685.9238
      Email: claimsreport@phly.com
  • Hanover Insurance Group: Information to file a claim with Hanover.
  • Travelers: Emergency Response Webpage
    • Mobile Claims Offices
    • Personal Insurance: 1‑800‑CLAIM33 (1‑800‑252‑4633)
    • Business Insurance: 1‑800‑238‑6225
      • HUB Agency: 600 Corporate Pointe Dr. Culver City, CA 90230
        • Tuesday, January 14, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. PST
      • Pasadena City College: 1570 East Colorado Blvd Pasadena, CA 91106
        • Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. PST
        • Sunday, January 26, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. PST
      • Santa Monica College, Performing Arts Center East Wing: 1310 11th St
        Santa Monica, CA 90401
        • Saturday, January 25, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. PST
        • Sunday, January 26, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. PST
    • If you have been evacuated or displaced, you can call us or visit one of our deployment locations to inquire about possible additional living expense reimbursement. In addition, Travelers has relationships with vendors countrywide that may be able to assist with hotel and temporary housing accommodations:
    • We also wanted you to know that earlier today we announced a $1 million contribution to support the relief and recovery efforts in the L.A. area. We’re partnering with tested organizations that are already undertaking effective response and recovery efforts on the ground. You can read more in our press release. 
  • CHUBB: Claims Website
  • HARTFORD: Catastrophe Claims Mobile Response Vehicle
    • Home Depot at 500 S. Marengo Drive, Alhambra, CA
      • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on January 14
      • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. starting on January 15
    • Claims Reporting:
      • Online
      • Call: 1-800-243-5860
        • Claims professionals available 24/7 
  • MERCURY: Los Angeles County Emergency Info
    • Report Personal Lines Claims
    • Call 1-800-503-3724 to report claims.
    • To further support homeowners and landlord policyholders affected by the wildfires, Mercury has implemented the following relief measures:
      • 60-day grace period for premium payments on residential property insurance policies in the affected areas. 
      • One-year moratorium on non-renewals or cancellations within the fire perimeter. 
      • Policy renewals for two annual periods following a total loss. 
      • Six-month rescission of pending non-renewals and cancellations. 
  • ATLAS: GoSafe (online safety resources)
    • Claims Updates
      • MPN Kaiser Locations: All Kaiser offices and clinics are open and servicing appointments.
      • MPN Concentra Locations: While some clinics were temporarily closed due to smoke and power outages, all are now open. Concentra is proactively rescheduling missed appointments.
      • Pharmacy Program: Early refill controls have been temporarily lifted to help injured workers manage their prescription medications.
      • Home Healthcare: Injured workers receiving active home healthcare in the affected areas are being contacted to verify relocations and ensure continuity of care.
      • Provider Updates: Sedgwick is actively reaching out to MPN providers in the affected areas and arranging alternative care solutions as needed.
  • HISCOX
  • JEWELERS MUTUAL
  • GUARD
    • Our thoughts go out to all the lives disrupted by the severe wildfires in California. Our claims personnel and catastrophe team stand ready to assist our policyholders in their time of need. Claims should be reported to us via our toll-free number, 1-888-NEW-CLMS, at www.guard.com, or from our Policyholder Service Center.
    • California Wildfire Claims FAQs.
  • PROGRESSIVE
    • Beginning Monday, January 20, daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. PT, we’ll be onsite in Burbank. Members of our Catastrophe Services Team will be onsite and available to answer any specific claims questions about any of our products at the following location:
      • Lowe’s: 2000 W. Empire Avenue Burbank, CA 91504
    • Personal Auto | Recreational Lines | Commercial Lines
      clipboard with checkmark report claims icon
      Report online
      P in square Progressive app icon
      Use the Progressive app
      phone call us icon
      Call 800-274-4499
    • Home and Property
      clipboard with checkmark report claims icon
      Report online
      phone call us icon
      Call 866-960-6925 (general claims)
      phone call us icon
      Call 866-511-0793 (flood claims)
REBUILDING AND RECOVERY
  • California Department of Insurance: Guidance on claims for fire damage. View Resources
  • The Salvation Army: provides grants to those displaced by fires and financial assistance for the immediate and long-term needs of fire victims. It also operates shelters and provides emergency housing for those fleeing fires.
  • Rebuilding Together Greater Los Angeles: Volunteer-based repair and rebuilding services. Support or Apply
  • Compiled List of Some Insurance Company Claims’ Departments: Click to access.
EMERGENCY SHELTERS, HOUSING
DONATIONS
  • Gaspar Insurance is organizing community donations at their location in Woodland Hills.
  • California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund: The California Fire Foundation works with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide ongoing, mid- and long-term support to California communities affected by natural disasters like wildfires. The organization, which provides direct support to victims, is beginning to support those impacted by the Palisades Fire.
  • American Red Cross: Donate to the Wildfire Relief Fund at the American Red Cross. If you’re located in the Los Angeles area and can offer temporary foster care to dogs displaced by the wildfires, sign up at the Canine Rescue Club. Los Angeles Emergency Management Department
  • The California Community Fund has a recovery fund dedicated to helping victims of wildfires. You can donate here.
  • Direct Relief: Donate to Direct Relief’s California Fire Relief, which provides N-95 masks, medicine, and resources to health-care agencies and first responders in areas affected by wildfires.
  • Friends in Deed: Donate to Friends in Deed, a nonprofit providing services for the homeless, as it opens its Bad Weather Shelter amid the fires. Friends in Deed donation website
  • World Central Kitchen, the nonprofit global food relief organization founded by celebrity chef José Andrés, is already on the ground in Southern California to aid first responders and evacuees.
    Donation page
  • CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation: CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation provides financial aid to firefighters and their families in case of injury or loss of life. The organization also helps support burn victims and their families, along with research focused on firefighter health and safety.
    https://calfire.foundation/donations/
  • California Fire Foundation: The California Fire Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, provides critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the communities they serve. Your tax-deductible donation will help them provide aid to victims of wildfires or other natural disasters through their Wildfire & Disaster Relief programs.
  • Dream Center: This L.A.-based charitable organization is offering emergency shelter to those evacuated in the Palisades and Eaton Canyon Fires.
    Dream Center donation for fires website.
  • Baby2Baby is accepting donations to support children impacted by the wildfires. 
  • The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is actively seeking funds to equip LAFD members battling wildfires with equipment and supplies such as emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks, wildland brush tools.
  • SPCALA’s Disaster Animal Response Team is seeking donations to provide aid, care, and shelter to animals in the wake of disaster.
  • The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is accepting financial donations and food donations at two distribution centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, located at 1734 East 41st Street in Los Angeles, CA, and 2300 Pellissier Place in Industry, CA.
  • Project Angel Food is seeking donations and volunteers to help deliver and make meals for wildfire victims. 
TRANSPORTATION
  • Uber and Lyft are offering free rides to shelters and evacuation sites:
    • Lyft: Two free rides up to $25 each. Use code: CAFIRERELIEF25.
    • Uber: Two free rides up to $40 each. Use code: WILDFIRE25.
  • Metro: Metro fares are free all day today.
COMMUNICATION
  • AT&T is offering people in fire-affected areas unlimited talk, text and data through Feb. 6 (if you don’t already have an unlimited plan). 
  • T-Mobile is also offering unlimited talk, text and data to customers in cities affected by the fires through Feb. 15. 
FOOD
  • World Central Kitchen: Provides meals to first responders and families impacted by wildfires in the Los Angeles area.
  • Calico Fish House : The chef at Calico Fish House in Sunset Beach in Orange County is offering to feed evacuees and let them camp out in the restaurant’s parking lot.
    Address: 16600 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
    Phone: (562) 357-4012
  • Sweet Greens will provide meals to first responders, victims, and displaced residents. DM them through social media or call directly. https://www.instagram.com/sweetgreen/
  • Restaurants Across LA County: There is a list of restaurants across LA County offering shelter, food, and support for first responders and evacuees. This includes SPA 6’s South LA Cafe, which is currently keeping three of its five locations (including Jefferson and Kaiser) open to provide shelter to evacuees and anyone in need. At their Western location (1700 Browning Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90062), they are offering free groceries, water, and masks from 12 to 4 p.m.
HEALTH AND MEDICAL CARE
  • Teladoc Health is offering free, 24/7 virtual medical care to Southern California residents, first responders and others impacted by the raging fires burning in Los Angeles. Individuals displaced by fires or those who are unable to access traditional medical care can consult licensed healthcare professionals for non-emergency illnesses by calling 855-225-5032. Services include treatment for conditions such as respiratory infections, allergies, sinus problems and cold or flu symptoms, company officials said. Additionally, Teladoc Health is providing assistance with prescription refills for non-narcotic medications.
    https://www.teladochealth.com/info/disaster-hotline
  • Humana Partnership with EyeMed:
    • Through our EyeMed Cares program, our Customer Care Center representatives are ready to provide the following services for affected members via an emergency toll-free line (1.866.652.0018):
      • Temporary Adjustable Glasses: If immediate materials are needed, a call center representative can expedite shipping these adjustable glasses to members—at no cost. These glasses enable individuals to adjust for different distances and switch focus for reading, computer and distance. For members displaced with no immediate address, we can work with them to determine a location where they can be picked up.
      • Free shipping for glasses and contacts: Whether the member wears glasses or contact lenses, we’ll ensure your replacement eyewear arrives as soon as possible with free expedited shipping.
    • Additional disaster response information:
      • Network: Impacted providers are updating their hours of operation and notifying EyeMed that their office is completely closed and cannot service members.
      • Compliance: EyeMed will comply with any additional mandates required through state or local insurance compliance bulletins issued regarding the specific disaster.
      • Assistance for employees experiencing financial hardship: Whether members or not, employees in affected areas who need financial assistance to obtain eyewear can reach out to the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation at engage@onesight.org to learn more. The OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation is EssilorLuxottica’s global Foundation working to eliminate uncorrected poor vision in a generation.
    • Choice Administrators:
      • If your clients have been affected by the fires and need assistance, please encourage them to reach out to our Customer Service teams.
        • CaliforniaChoice Customer Service: 800.558.8003
        • ChoiceBuilder Customer Service: 866.412.9276
ANIMAL EVACUATION CENTERS
  • River Way Ranch Camp: For those of you who have been affected, please know we are offering accommodations and meals at no cost to families who have been displaced by the fires. Additionally, for those with horses or larger animals requiring temporary boarding, we may be able to provide space as well. You may contact us directly – Ashley Oken at (800) 821-2801 to arrange accommodations. https://www.riverwayranchcamp.com/
  • Los Angeles Equestrian Center
  • Pierce College Equestrian Center
    • 7100 El Rancho Drive, Woodland Hills
    • 818-710-3308
  • Rose Bowl Stadium
  • Agoura Animal Care Center
  • Pasadena Humane Society
PET RESOURCES

Wildfires can displace animals, leaving them in urgent need of help. Pets may also get lost or left behind during such an emergency.

  • American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
    • aspca.org
    • The ASPCA’s National Field Response team provides emergency sheltering, rescue and relocation services for animals affected by wildfires. It also assists with evacuations and offers resources for pet owners to prepare for emergencies.
  • Humane Society of the United States
    • humanesociety.org
    • The Emergency Animal Relief Fund helps animals impacted by disasters. The Humane Society also works to reunite pets with their owners and provide care for displaced animals.
MENTAL HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support.
  • California Hope: Offers crisis counseling for disaster survivors. Call (833) 317-HOPE or visit CalHope.org
  • The Wellness Center at LAC+USC: Free emotional support resources. Learn More
  • Fusco Orsini & Associates EAP Partner: TELUS Health’s emergency community line is open for anyone who is in need, including anyone who doesn’t have the TELUS Health EAP. The emergency community line is 1-877-757-7587.
    • How TELUS can help:
      • 24/7 Support Line: Reach out to our confidential support line at 1-833-919-3252.
      • Counseling Services: Access professional counseling to help manage stress, anxiety, and emotional well-being.
      • Resources and Guidance: Connect with specialists for assistance in finding temporary housing, legal advice, or navigating insurance claims.
    • Local resources to stay safe and informed:
      • Emergency Updates: Visit Cal Fire for the latest wildfire information.
      • Evacuation Centers: Locate nearby shelters through the American Red Cross Shelter Finder.
      • Air Quality Information: Check air quality levels and safety tips at AirNow.gov.
      • Los Angeles County Emergency Alerts: Sign up for notifications at Ready LA County.
      • Support Hotline: Dial 211 for community services and disaster-related assistance.
    • Take care of yourself:
      • Follow evacuation orders promptly and have an emergency kit ready.
      • Limit outdoor exposure and use air purifiers or N95 masks to protect against smoke.
      • Stay connected with loved ones and communicate your safety plans.
SAN DIEGO ASSISTANCE
  • Fill the Truck- Rock Church Donation Drive
    • The Rock Church is holding a donation drive at its San Diego and San Marcos locations from Jan. 1 through Jan. 15. They are looking for items for victims and first responders including protein bars, energy drinks and baby wipes. These donated items will be going to a partner church in LA, where they will distribute them to those in need. 
    • Rock Church Point Loma – 2277 Rosecrans St. San Diego, CA 92106
    • Rock Church San Marcos – 1370 W San Marcos Blvd. San Marcos, CA 92078
  • GoFundMe
    • GoFundMe also offers various campaigns people can donate to victims. The donated money directly goes to families on GoFundMe’s page of verified fundraisers. Find the link here. 
  • San Diego Blood Bank
  • San Diego Humane Society
    • The San Diego Humane Society is taking animals from shelters in Pasadena. Those interested can help by adopting or fostering.
  • San Diego Food Bank
    • The San Diego Food Bank is taking donated food up to the LA Regional Food Bank.
SIGNIFICANT CLAIMS AND INSURANCE COVERAGE RELATED LAWS
  • Actual Cash Value Calculation: Under an open policy, the measure of indemnity in fire insurance is the expense to the insured of replacing the thing lost or injured in its condition at the time of the injury, the expense being computed as of the time of the commencement of the fire.
    Under an open policy that requires payment of actual cash value, the measure of the actual cash value recovery, in whole or partial settlement of the claim, for either a total or partial loss to the structure or its contents, shall be the amount it would cost the insured to repair, rebuild, or replace the thing lost or injured less a fair and reasonable deduction for physical depreciation based upon its condition at the time of the injury or the policy limit, whichever is less. A deduction for physical depreciation shall apply only to components of a structure that are normally subject to repair and replacement during the useful life of that structure (Cal. Ins. Code section 2051).
  • Replacement Cost Value Calculation: Under an open policy that requires payment of the replacement cost for a loss, the measure of indemnity is the amount that it would cost the insured to repair, rebuild, or replace the thing lost or injured, without a deduction for physical depreciation, or the policy limit, whichever is less (Cal. Ins. Code section 2051.5[a]).
  • Time Limit to Collect Full Replacement Cost: An insured will have no less than 12 months (from the date that the first payment toward the actual cash value is made) to collect the full replacement cost of the loss, subject to the policy limit. In the event of a loss relating to a “state of emergency,” as defined in California Government Code section 8558, an insured will have no less than 36 months (from the date that the first payment toward the actual cash value is made) in order to collect the full replacement cost of the loss, subject to the policy limit. Additional extensions of six months shall be provided to policyholders for good cause (Cal. Ins. Code sections 2051.5[b][1] and [2]).
  • Rebuilding in Current Location or Rebuilding or Replacing in a New Location: In the event of a total loss of the insured structure, a policy issued or delivered in this state shall not contain a provision that limits or denies, on the basis that the insured has decided to rebuild at a new location or to purchase an already built home at a new location, payment of the building code upgrade cost or the replacement cost, including any extended replacement cost coverage, to the extent those costs are otherwise covered by the terms of the policy or any policy endorsement. However, the measure of indemnity shall not exceed the replacement cost, including the building code upgrade cost and any extended replacement cost coverage, if applicable, to repair, rebuild, or replace the insured structure at its original location (Cal. Ins. Code section 2051.5[c][1]).
  • Land Value Deduction: For a residential property insurance policy, the measure of damages available to a policyholder to use to rebuild or replace the insured home at another location shall be the amount that would have been recoverable had the insured dwelling been rebuilt at its original location, and a deduction for the value of land at the new location shall not be permitted from that measure of damages. However, the measure of indemnity shall not exceed the cost, including the building code upgrade cost and any extended replacement cost coverage, if applicable, to rebuild the insured structure at its original location (Cal. Ins. Code section 2051.5[c][2]).
  • List of Items Covered – Additional Living Expenses (ALE): If requested by the insured, this section requires insurance companies to provide the insured with a list of items that an insurer believes would be covered under the policy (Cal. Ins. Code section 2060[a]).
  • Time Limit to Collect Additional Living Expenses (ALE): In the event of a covered loss relating to a state of emergency, as defined in California Government Code section 8558, on and after July 1, 2021, coverage for additional living expenses (or loss of use) shall be for at least 24 months from the inception of the loss, but shall be subject to other policy provisions. An insurer shall grant an extension of up to 12 additional months, for a total of 36 months, if an insured acting in good faith and with reasonable diligence encounters a delay or delays in the reconstruction process that are the result of circumstances beyond the control of the insured. Circumstances beyond the control of the insured include, but are not limited to, unavoidable construction permit delays, lack of necessary construction materials, and lack of available contractors to perform the necessary work. Additional extensions of six months shall be provided to policyholders for good cause (Cal. Ins. Code section 2060[b][1]).
  • Uninhabitable/Reasonable Habitation (ALE): If the insured home is rendered uninhabitable by a covered peril, on and after July 1, 2021, a policy that provides coverage for additional living expenses shall not limit the policyholder’s right to recovery. However, an insurer may, in lieu of making living expense payments required by this subdivision, provide a reasonable alternative remedy that addresses the property condition that precludes reasonable habitation of the insured premises. The additional living expense coverage subject to this section does not include a utility public safety power shut off event, which is the deenergization of a portion of the electrical distribution or transmission system to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition (Cal. Ins. Code section 2060[b][2]).
  • Restricted Access by Civil Authority (ALE): In the event of a state of emergency, as defined in Gov. Code section 8558, for a loss that is otherwise not subject to Cal. Ins. Code sections 2060(b)(1) and (2) above that is accompanied by an order of civil authority restricting access to the home, related to a covered peril, on and after July 1, 2021, additional living expense coverage shall be provided for at least two weeks. Additional extensions of two weeks shall be provided to a policyholder for good cause, but shall be subject to other policy provisions (Cal. Ins. Code section 2060[c]).
  • Additional Living Expense (ALE) Advance Payment: In the event of a covered loss relating to a state of emergency, as defined in California Government Code section 8558, the following special provision shall apply under a residential property insurance policy:
    • (1) If an insured has made a claim for additional living expenses related to a total loss, an insurer shall, upon request by an insured, render an advance payment of no less than four months of living expenses. Additional payment for additional living expenses shall be payable upon proper proof following the advance period (Cal. Ins. Code section 2061[a]).
  • Itemization of Contents: In the event of a covered loss relating to a state of emergency, as defined in California Government Code section 8558, the following special provisions shall apply under a residential property insurance policy:
    • (2) If an insured has made a claim for contents related to a total loss of a primary residence, an insurer shall not require that the insured use a company-specific inventory form if the insured can provide an inventory using a form that contains substantially the same information. This subdivision does not limit the authority of an insurer to seek additional reasonable information from an insured upon receipt of an inventory form submitted by an insured.
    • (3) If an insured has made a claim for contents related to a total loss of a primary residence, an insurer shall accept an inventory that includes groupings of categories of personal property, including clothing, shoes, books, food items, CDs, DVDs, or other categories of items for which it would be impractical to separately list each individual item claimed (Cal. Ins. Code section 2061[a]).
  • Changing Claims Adjusters: If, within a six-month period, an insurer assigns a third or subsequent adjuster to be primarily responsible for a claim, the insurer shall provide the insured with a written status report. The written status report must include a summary of any decisions or actions that are substantially related to the disposition of a claim, including, but not limited to, the amount of losses to structures or contents, the retention or consultation of design or construction professionals, the amount of coverage for losses to structures or contents, and all items of dispute (Cal. Ins. Code section 2071).
    Note: In addition to the above, California Insurance Code section 14047 requires that for a claim arising from a state of emergency, if, within a six-month period, an insurer assigns a third or subsequent first-party real or personal property claims adjuster, the insurer shall establish a primary point of contact for the insured and provide the insured one or more direct means of communication with the primary point of contact.
  • Appraisal: In the event of a government-declared disaster, as defined in the California Government Code, appraisal may be requested by either the insured or the insurance company but shall not be compelled (Cal. Ins. Code section 2071).
  • Copy of Complete Policy After a Loss: After a covered loss under a policy covered by California Insurance Code section 2071, an insurer shall provide to the insured, free of charge, a complete, current copy of their policy within 30 calendar days of receipt of a request from the insured. The policy must include the full insurance policy, any endorsements, and the declarations page (Cal. Ins. Code section 2084).
  • Building Code Upgrade Coverage: An open policy of residential property insurance that provides replacement cost coverage shall not be issued or renewed unless it provides additional building code upgrade coverage of no less than 10 percent of the dwelling coverage policy limits. The building code upgrade coverage required by this subdivision shall be additional coverage, and use of this coverage shall not reduce or deplete the dwelling coverage policy limits for the insured property. Insurers may offer building code upgrade coverage of greater than 10 percent of the dwelling coverage policy limits, in addition to providing the minimum coverage of 10 percent of the dwelling coverage policy limits (Cal. Ins. Code section 10103[c]).
  • Ability to Combine Coverages: In the event of a claim relating to a state of emergency, an insured under a residential property insurance policy shall be permitted to combine payments for claims for losses up to the policy limits for the primary dwelling and other structures, for any of the covered expenses reasonably necessary to rebuild or replace the damaged or destroyed dwelling, if the policy limits for coverage to rebuild or replace the primary dwelling are insufficient (Cal. Ins. Code section 10103.7[a]).
  • Payment of Contents Without Inventory: In the event of a covered total loss of a primary dwelling under a residential property insurance policy resulting from a state of emergency, if the residence was furnished at the time of the loss:
    • (1) The insurer shall offer a payment under the contents (personal property) coverage in an amount no less than 30 percent of the policy limit applicable to the covered dwelling structure, up to a maximum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000), without requiring the insured to file an itemized claim.
    • (2) After receiving the payment described in paragraph (1), the insured may recover additional amounts up to the policy limit for contents coverage by filing a claim pursuant to the terms of the policy for the loss of contents that exceeds the value of the payment provided pursuant to paragraph (1).
    • (3) When an insured files a claim relating to a state of emergency, as defined in California Government Code section 8558, the insurer shall notify the insured of the option to receive payment for loss of contents pursuant to paragraph (1) and of the insured’s option to subsequently file a full itemized claim pursuant to paragraph (2).
    • (4) This subdivision does not affect payment under the policy for scheduled personal property.
    • (5) This section does not prohibit an insurer from restricting payment in cases of suspected fraud (Cal. Ins. Code section 10103.7[b]).

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