After a Fire, Protect Your Rights, Reduce Headaches, Get Help!
When Fire Strikes, Insurance Should Help—But It Doesn’t Always
A fire destroys your home and everything in it. Insurance is supposed to soften the blow.
Right?
Wrong. For many homeowners, insurance companies make the rebuilding process long, stressful, and unnecessarily complicated—at a time when you’re already facing loss and upheaval.
The good news: there are steps you can take immediately to ease the burden and improve your chances of a full recovery under your policy.
Step 1: Call Your Insurance Company Immediately
Don’t wait. Report your loss as soon as possible. Don’t assume your fire department or neighbor has already notified your insurer. This step starts the claims process.
Step 2: Get a Copy of Your Insurance Policy
Most people don’t have their policy on hand—and that’s okay. Just call your insurance company and request a copy.
Why it matters: Your policy is the only document that outlines what your insurer will or won’t pay. Understanding it is critical to managing your claim.
Step 3: Document Everything
Take photos of the damage as soon as it's safe to do so
If you have before photos, save those too
Keep a running list of damages, receipts, and conversations with your insurer
Start compiling a personal property inventory—this will be required
Pro tip: Most people can’t recall everything in their house. Did you include grandma’s china? The antique dresser? How about every tool in your garage?
You’ll also be asked to estimate the value of these items, which is difficult without help—and the insurance company is supposed to assist. But often, they don't.
Step 4: Understand Your Temporary Living Situation
You may be living in a hotel, juggling your job, family obligations, and now—insurance paperwork. It’s overwhelming.
Step 5: Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster
A Public Adjuster is licensed by the State of California to represent you, not the insurance company. They work on your behalf to ensure:
Your claim is fully documented
Your payout matches your actual loss
You’re not misled by lowball offers or delayed payments
If you're feeling overwhelmed, a public adjuster can be your advocate.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Have questions or need help?