https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TPeJzW5pa-BiJZjuEa1yGSFs7ZJetbnxf2gjMvv4tkc/htmlview#gid=1160377357 Home Loss File System - Digital Resource * Introduction * 1. First Steps After a Wildfire * 2. Essential Resources and Contacts * 3. Insurance Policy Summary * 4. Medical Insurance & Health Records * 5. Temporary Housing & ALE Tracker * 6. Inventory of Contents * 7. Inventory of Hardscape & Landscape * 8. Vehicle Replacement * 9. Debris Removal Information * 10. Claim Documentation Log * 11. Insurance Claim Rules in California * 12. Rebuilding Information * 13. Key Terms & Definitions * 14. Donation Tracker * 15. Mental Health & Wellbeing * 16. To-Do List and Deadlines * 17. Additional References A B C D E F G H Welcome to the Home Loss File System - Digital Resource: 1 Introduction (Last Updated - 1/12/25) 2 This tool was created by former California wildfire survivors committed to supporting you through the challenging process of 3 disaster recovery. We hope to provide essential resources, checklists, and organizational tools to help you manage 4 insurance claims, document losses, and track expenses efficiently. By staying organized, you hope you can regain a sense of control 5 during this difficult time. We are truly sorry for your loss and hope this tool offers clarity, support, and empowerment as 6 you move forward on your path to recovery. 7 8 How to Use This System: 1. Save Your Own Copy: Click File > Make a Copy to save this document to your personal Google Drive. 2. Edit and Customize: You can edit, adapt, and expand the system to fit your unique recovery needs. 3. Explore Each Sheet/Tab: Each tab is dedicated to a key 9 part of the recovery process, including insurance tracking, inventory management, emotional support, and more. 4. Complete Each Section: The tool includes dropdown menus, editable fields, and space for tracking claim progress. 5. Stay Organized: Keep all records updated for better insurance claim processing and easier communication with support agencies. 10 11 Index of Each Sheet/Tab: 12 1. First Steps Immediate steps for safety, housing, and After a Wildfire starting the recovery process. 2. Essential Key contact information for emergency 13 Resources & services, insurance, and local aid groups. Contacts 14 3. Insurance Store your insurance details, including Policy Summary policy numbers, coverage, and contacts. 4. Medical Track medical expenses such as replacement 15 Insurance & prescriptions, equipment, and manage medical Health Records claims. 5. Temporary Organize and track expenses for temporary 16 Housing & ALE housing and additional living costs. Tracker 17 6. Inventory of Document lost or damaged belongings with Contents essential claim details and values. 7. Inventory of Record damage to your home's structure and 18 Hardscape & landscaping. Landscape 19 8. Vehicle Document auto insurance claims and manage Replacement vehicle replacement or repair steps. 9. Debris Track debris removal steps, permits, and 20 Removal contractor interactions for cleanup. Checklist 10. Claim Log all communications with insurers and 21 Documentation track claim submissions and approvals. Log 11. Insurance Understand key regulations and guidelines 22 Claim Rules in for filing insurance claims effectively in California California. 12. Rebuilding Understand key information about rebuilding, 23 Information engaging contractors and navigating the process. 13. Key Terms & Clarify important insurance and 24 Definitions recovery-related terminology to navigate your claims more confidently. 25 14. Donation Track monetary gifts, gift cards, food, and Tracker services and how they are used. 15. Mental Access resources for emotional support, 26 Health & trauma recovery, and well-being tips. Recovery 27 16. To-Do List Manage and prioritize recovery tasks with a and Deadlines clear checklist and timeline. 17. Additional Explore further resources, guides, and 28 References support materials for disaster recovery and insurance navigation. 29 30 Next Steps: Save a copy and start entering your information step by step. 31 Update regularly and keep all receipts, forms, and documents in one place. Visit uphelp.org for additional guidance and tools. 32 33 Our Contact Information We are a group of California residents (many of whom lost our home in the 2003 Cedar Fire) who are passionate about helping families in the aftermath of a catastrophic natural disaster. This Home Loss Recovery System is a tool, modeled on one used by Scripps Ranch residents in the wake of the 2003 Cedar 34 Fire, that helped families with rebuilding their lives in an organized and efficient manner. Our mantra is, "Getting organized helps us feel in control of our lives again." Statistics: Over 2,900 Home Loss File System boxes have been distributed across numerous California wildfires in the last 20+ years. 35 36 If you have any questions/comments/suggestions, please feel free to contact us at: 37 Website: homelossfilesystem.com 38 Email: homelossfilesystem@gmail.com 39 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OutOfTheAshesBox/ 40 41 We appreciate your feedback! 42 Please note - this Home Loss Flle System is not a substitute 43 for legal advice/opinion. Please contact a lawyer if you have any difficulties through the process. 44 [AHOq17GUQK3IiTN0JGzq] A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q 1 First Steps After a Wildfire Review each step with your loved ones to create a clear plan of 2 action and ensure everyone is informed and prepared to move forward together. 3 4 1. You First: Take care of you and your family's immediate needs first. 5 2. Housing: Finding temporary housing is a priority. Your insurance company should help you find a place of similar size. 3. Gather Essential Documents: Identification (Driver's License, Passport, Birth Certificate); Insurance Policies; Property 6 Deeds; Auto Titles; Social Security Cards; Wills and Legal Documents; Tax Records; Medical Records, Veterinary Records. Some may need to be replaced. 4. Recovery Log: Start a recovery log. Any notebook (or tab on 7 this spreadsheet) will do. Take notes on: who you talked to, the number you called, date and time, what was said. Keep your paperwork organized. 5. Initial Insurance Requests: Ask your insurance company for 8 cash advances for living expenses and replacing immediately needed personal property.* 6. Receipts: Keep all receipts while you are displaced. Hotel 9 bills, clothes, and pet boarding may be reimbursed but require receipts. 10 7. Property Photos: Take photos of your property before any cleanup or debris removal happens. 11 8. Contracts: Do not rush into signing contracts. Get copies of ALL paperwork you do sign. 9. Insurance Adjuster: An insurance adjuster will eventually 12 come and inspect your home. If they make you a settlement offer on the spot, get a second opinion on what you're entitled to. 10. Inventory: Inventorying your damaged and destroyed property 13 is time-consuming and unpleasant. UP offers tips and tools for getting this done. Visit www.uphelp.org/contents. 11. Stand Up for Your Rights: Give your insurer a chance to do 14 the right thing, but be prepared to stand up for your rights and get help if you're not being treated fairly. 15 12. Case Manager: Register with a Red Cross Case Manager - they can help make referrals to resources. Dial: 1-800-RED-CROSS 13. FEMA & SBA Registration: If your disaster is declared, 16 register with FEMA (if a federally declared disaster) and the SBA (if a state disaster declaration). 17 14. Additional Guidance: For more specifics and guidance on the insurance claim process, visit www.uphelp.org/2020wildfires. 18 *TIP: If you lost your home in the wildfire, when you file your insurance claim, be sure to ask for a cash advance to help you get situated. If your wildfire is a "California declared 19 disaster", your insurer is required to give you an advance of no less than 30% of your contents limit and at least 4 months of your "Additional Living Expense" coverage. Be sure to ask for it in writing (email counts). A B C D 1 Essential Resources and Contacts Having access to reliable resources and contact information is 2 critical during your recovery process. Use these resources to connect with organizations and professionals who can provide support, answer your questions, and assist you. 3 4 Emergency Services 5 Resource Contact Website About Information 6 FEMA Disaster 1-800-621-FEMA www.fema.gov Assistance 7 American Red Cross 1-800-RED-CROSS www.redcross.org 8 National Disaster 1-800-985-5990 SAMHSA Helpline Helpline 9 United Way 211 (Local Dial 211 www.211.org Services) 10 DisasterAssistance.gov DisasterAssistance.gov 211 and AirBnB - Los Angeles Temporary 11 Temporary Housing for Housing with AirBnB LA Wildfires 12 13 Insurance & Legal Support 14 Resource Contact Website About Information 15 United Policyholders info@uphelp.org www.uphelp.org (UP) National Association 16 of Insurance (816) 783-8500 www.naic.org Commissioners (NAIC) Consumer Financial 17 Protection Bureau (855) 411-2372 www.consumerfinance.gov (CFPB) 18 State Insurance Varies by State Find Your State Office Commissioner Office 19 National Disaster http:// Legal Services www.disasterlegalaid.org Disaster Unemployment http:// 20 Assistance 1-877-872-5627 workforcesecurity.doleta.gov /unemploy/disaster.asp 21 22 Financial Assistance & Loan Resources 23 Resource Contact Website About Information 24 Small Business 1-800-659-2955 www.sba.gov Administration (SBA) 25 Disaster Unemployment Contact Local www.benefits.gov Assistance Office 26 GoFundMe for Disaster Online Only www.gofundme.com Relief National Foundation 27 for Credit Counseling 1-800-388-2227 www.nfcc.org (NFCC) 28 Federal Tax Assistance 1-800-829-4933 www.irs.gov 29 Financial Counseling -888-388-HOPE www.operationhope.org American Red Cross 30 Financial Assistance www.redcross.org Program 31 32 Rebuilding & Contractor Guidance 33 Resource Contact Website About Information 34 Contractors State 1-800-321-CSLB www.cslb.ca.gov License Board (CSLB) 35 Better Business Bureau 1-703-276-0100 www.bbb.org (BBB) 36 National Association (800) 368-5242 www.nahb.org of Home Builders 37 Habitat for Humanity www.habitat.org Disaster Response 38 39 Other Helpful Resources 40 Resource Contact Website About Information 41 U.S. Postal Service 1-800-ASK-USPS www.usps.com (Change of Address) 42 Social Security 1-800-772-1213 www.ssa.gov Administration 43 Veterans Affairs 1-800-507-4571 www.va.gov Disaster Hotline U.S. Department of 44 State Passport 1-877-487-2778 http://travel.state.gov Services Birth, death and Bureau of Records in the 45 marriage & divorce appropriate state certificates Records Department of the 46 Titles to deeds area in which the property is located 47 Citizenship papers 1-800-375-5283 A B C D E F 1 Insurance Policy Summary When reviewing your home insurance policy, it is important to gather and organize critical information to better understand your 2 coverage and start the claims process effectively. Use the table below to track essential details about your policy. Learn more here: https://www.naic.org/ 3 4 Coverage Type Insurance Policy Coverage Adjuster Contact Company Number Limit Name Information 5 Dwelling/Home Insurance 6 Contents/Personal Property 7 Additional Living Expenses (ALE) 8 Debris Removal 9 Auto Insurance 10 Valuable Items Protection 11 Business Property Coverage 12 Wildfire-Specific Coverage Renters Insurance 13 (during temporary housing) A B C D 1 Medical Insurance and Health Records Use this section to track health insurance claims, replace lost medical records or prescriptions, and manage access to healthcare 2 and medical equipment during recovery. Keep detailed records and contact information for insurance, providers, and pharmacies to ensure timely assistance. 3 4 Category Details Contact Notes Information Health Policy number: [Enter Insurer: Include a 5 Insurance Policy Number] [Phone/Email copy of your Details Coverage: [Enter Coverage /Website] policy. Details] Claim Tracker for claims filed: Adjuster: File claims 6 Tracking [Add a tracker/log here] [Contact ASAP. Info] Prescription Current prescriptions and Pharmacy: Attach refill 7 Management refill instructions: [List [Phone/ receipts if medications and dosages] Email] needed. Medical List damaged/lost Vendor: File claims 8 Equipment equipment: [Add details] [Contact with Replacement Info] receipts. A B C D E F G H I 1 Temporary Housing and Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Tracker Accurate tracking is essential for ensuring you receive proper reimbursement from your insurance company. Start by recording each expense as it occurs. Be sure to keep all 2 receipts, invoices, or other proof of payment. When you are ready to submit your claim, you can provide this tracker along with copies of your receipts and supporting documentation to your insurance adjuster. 3 4 Date Expense Type Amount Receipt Paid by Reimbursed? 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O 1 Inventory of Contents Destroyed in the Fire 2 Use this inventory list as a tool until you receive official forms from your insurance company. List Items Room by Room: Recall and list all items in each room, including furniture, appliances, clothing, and personal belongings. Describe Each Item: Include details like brand, model, size, material, and any distinguishing features. Estimate Value: Record the original purchase price and age of the item, which will inform the estimated value. Attach Proof: Use receipts, warranties, or photos of the items or 3 rooms as evidence when possible. Categorize Items: Organize your list by categories like furniture, electronics, clothing, or kitchenware for clarity. Include Lost Documents: Add important documents like passports or certificates to the list if they were destroyed. *TIP*: Ask your adjustor if they will accept a department store "wedding registery" list that you compile from that store of items that you have. 4 Name of Price Age of Item 5 Item # Item(s) of Qty Description Item Category Item 6 1 7 2 8 3 9 4 10 5 11 6 12 7 13 8 14 9 15 10 16 11 17 12 18 13 19 14 20 15 21 16 22 17 23 18 24 19 25 20 26 21 27 22 28 23 29 24 30 25 31 26 32 27 33 28 34 29 35 30 36 31 37 32 38 33 39 34 40 35 41 36 42 37 43 38 44 39 45 40 46 41 47 42 48 43 49 44 50 45 51 46 52 47 53 48 54 49 55 50 56 51 57 52 58 53 59 54 60 55 61 56 62 57 63 58 64 59 65 60 66 61 67 62 68 63 69 64 70 65 71 66 72 67 73 68 74 69 75 70 76 71 77 72 78 73 79 74 80 75 81 76 82 77 83 78 84 79 85 80 86 81 87 82 88 83 89 84 90 85 91 86 92 87 93 88 94 89 95 90 96 91 97 92 98 93 99 94 100 95 101 96 102 97 103 98 104 99 105 100 106 101 107 102 108 103 109 104 110 105 111 106 112 107 113 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List Items by Area: Recall and list all hardscape or landscape elements, such as fences, patios, trees, or lawns, by area (e.g., front yard, backyard, side yard). Describe Each Item: Provide details like material, size, design, and specific features (e.g., "Wooden fence, 6 ft high, 100 ft long"). Estimate Value: Record the original purchase price and age of the 3 item, which will inform the estimated value. Attach Proof: Use photos, invoices, or receipts of the hardscape or landscape elements to document their condition prior. Categorize Items: Organize your list into categories like fences, driveways, patios, trees, shrubs, or grass for clarity. Include Special Features: Note any unique or high-value features like mature trees, custom pavers, or specialty plantings that may require special consideration. 4 5 Item Name of Item Price of Qty Description Age of Item # (s) Item Item Category 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 A B C 1 Vehicle Replacement Use this section to organize and track the process of replacing or 2 repairing your vehicle, including insurance claims, documentation, and any related expenses. 3 4 Category Details Notes Policy #: [Enter Policy 5 Insurance Number] Contact Insurer: [Phone/ Policy Coverage: [Comprehensive/ Email/Website] Collision] Make/Model: [Enter 6 Vehicle Details] Attach prior photos (if Information VIN: [Enter VIN] available). Plate #: [Enter Plate] 7 Damage [Detailed description of Include photos or fire/ Description fire damage] police reports. Claim #: [Enter Claim Add communication logs 8 Claim Tracking Number] with adjusters. Filing Date: [MM/DD/YYYY] Repair/ Repair Estimate: [Enter 9 Replacement Amount] Attach repair shop quotes Quotes Replacement Value: [Enter or valuation docs. Amount] 10 DMV Updates [Steps to replace title, DMV Contact: [Phone/ registration, plates] Website] Rental Costs: [Enter 11 Temporary Amount] Attach receipts for Transportation Dates: [MM/DD/YYYY - MM/ rentals or rideshares. DD/YYYY] Loan Payoff: [Enter 12 Financial Amount] Record how funds were Records Insurance Payout: [Enter used (e.g., repairs). Amount] A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R 1 Debris Removal Information Use this information sheet to help you with debris removal 2 Additional Info can be found here: https://uphelp.org/ claim-guidance-publications/ debris-removal-after-a-partial-or-total-loss/ 3 4 Debris removal coverage helps pay for the cost of clearing away damaged materials, rubble, and hazardous 5 waste from your property after a fire or other What Is disaster. This step is critical for safety and 6 Debris preparing for rebuilding or repairs. As the property Removal owner, you are responsible for clearing debris from 7 Coverage? your lot. Your policy should cover debris removal as a necessary expense to bring your property back to its 8 pre-loss condition. 9 10 Standard Debris Clearing: Removing damaged structures and personal belongings. 11 Hazardous Material Removal: Asbestos, lead paint, and What's other hazardous waste. 12 Typically Tree & Vegetation Clearing: If damaged by the event and Covered? obstructing recovery. 13 Demolition Costs: If part of debris removal before reconstruction. 14 Permit Fees: If required by local authorities for removal or demolition. 15 How Much The amount of benefits available for debris removal Insurance depends on your insurer and your policy. You may need 16 Do I Have to use part of your Coverage A (Dwelling) benefits, or for Debris you may have additional benefits for debris removal, Removal? such as: 17 Percentage of Coverage A: Example: 10% of $400,000 = $40,000. 18 Percentage of Damage: Example: 10% of $100,000 = $10,000. 19 Additional Coverage Limit: Example: A fixed $15,000 extra benefit. 20 You may also have $500 in coverage specifically to remove a tree if it falls and damages your property. 21 What to Do Before 1. Photograph Everything: Document all recognizable 22 Debris items in the debris before removal, especially those Removal the insurer may attempt to clean or salvage. Begins: 23 2. Inventory: Ensure you capture photos of personal property and structural damage. 3. Communicate with Your Insurer: Request written 24 confirmation from your insurance company that they have fully inspected the loss site and agree you can move forward with debris removal. 4. Review Salvage Decisions: If your insurer or a 25 cleaning company deems items salvageable but you disagree, negotiate with the adjuster. Cleaning and storage fees often reduce your coverage benefits. 26 What If Insurance Isn't If your coverage limits fall short, here's what to 27 Enough to consider: Cover Debris Removal? Standard Loss: If your home was damaged in an isolated event (not a disaster impacting others in 28 your area), you will need to negotiate the cost of removal and may pay out-of-pocket if it exceeds policy limits. 29 Disaster Event: If multiple homes are affected, your city or county may assist by offering: 30 Free roll-off dumpsters. 31 Coordinated lot-clearing programs where vetted contractors remove debris from multiple properties. In a coordinated program, the city/county may 32 pre-screen contractors and ensure cost efficiency. If costs are lower than your coverage limit, leftover benefits may be applied to rebuilding expenses. 33 Key Questions to Ask Your 34 Insurer What is my debris removal coverage limit? About Debris Removal: 35 Are there any exclusions or separate deductibles? 36 Do you have preferred contractors for fire damage cleanup? 37 Is pre-approval required before starting debris removal? 38 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N 1 Claim Documentation Log Communicating with your insurance company is an incredibly important part of the claims process. The insurance company may try to handle your claim by telephone, with no records. However your claim is handled, you must make sure that everything gets documented in writing. 2 For example - if you have a significant disagreement/dispute with your adjustor, talk to the supervisor/discuss with a lawyer. How you communicate makes a world of difference in the amount of benefits you collect and how fast you collect them. Learn more: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ speak-up-how-to-communicate-with-your-insurance-company/ 3 4 Date of Person Organization Contact Summary of Next Steps Claim Notes Contact Contacted Method Discussion /Follow-Up Status Discussed Submit John [Insurance initial claim additional 5 example Smith Company/ status and receipts Adjuster] required by [Date] documents Review Requested revised 6 example Jane Doe [Contractor updated repair estimate Name] estimate and compare bids Provided Contact 7 example [Case resource FEMA for Manager] recommendations additional assistance Submit 8 example [Insurance Clarified ALE expense Adjuster] coverage receipts for review Discussed Schedule [Support emotional counseling 9 example Agency] health session if resources needed available 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 [AHOq17FfLzZaWJz4StLkeIgpFJQzceaw3s1EIM7Cno7xGWaxX5] A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O 1 Insurance Claim Rules in California (2023) Check for updates to ensure most accurate information. 2 Source: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ insurance-claim-rules-in-california-2023/ 3 4 5 6 7 8 Your insurance company, its employees and independent adjusters, are required to follow California laws, regulations, and Department of 9 Insurance directives when handling your property damage claim. Some of these are triggered by whether or not a Presidential or 10 Governor-declared State of Emergency has been declared. Insurance claim adjusters, especially those who come from out of state after a 11 disaster, don't always know or follow applicable laws and regulations, so it's often up to you to understand and enforce them 12 for yourself. 13 Claim Handling Practices in the Event of a Government-Declared Disaster 14 The following is a set of rules that outlines how insurance companies 15 MUST act after a declared State of Emergency in California. Re-stating these rules in your communications with insurance company 16 employees gives you leverage to get them to pay your claim fairly, promptly and fully. 17 Loss of Use/Additional/Temporary Living Expenses (ALE) - If you have 18 suffered a total loss relating to a declared state of emergency, your insurance company must give you a cash advance of no less than four 19 months of your ALE benefits while working with you on calculating your full losses and benefits owed. This advance should help you get 20 situated after the shock of the loss. After that required advance, most insurers will require you to submit receipts and document your 21 ALE expenses in order to collect the rest of your benefits earmarked for temporary living costs. ([CA Ins. Code 2061 (a)(1)]. If you ask 22 your insurer to give you a list of items normally classified as reimbursable ALE expenses, they are legally required to provide that 23 list to you [Cal Ins Code 2060]. 24 Restricted Access by Civil Authority (ALE) - In the event of a state of emergency related to a covered peril that, by an order of civil 25 authority, restricts access to the insured property ALE coverage shall be provided for at least two weeks. Additional extensions shall 26 be provided for good cause but are subject to other policy provisions. ([CA Ins. Code 2060(c)] 27 Debris Removal - Insurance companies should agree to cooperate and 28 make your debris removal benefits available if you decide to participate in a program through which your and your neighbor's 29 debris gets removed through a coordinated effort. 30 Buying or Rebuilding - In the event of a total loss (disaster or non-disaster) CA law [Cal Ins. Code 2051.5 (c)] allows you to use 31 your full replacement benefits, including any building code upgrade costs and extended replacement cost coverage you may have, to: 32 - rebuild your home at the current location, - rebuild at a new location, or 33 - purchase an already built home at a new location. 34 Land Value Deduction - In the event of a total loss to your property, the amount owed to you by the insurer is the cost to rebuild your 35 home at its original location, including building code upgrade coverage and extended replacement cost coverage. Your insurer is not 36 allowed to take a deduction for the value of land under the replacement home you purchase. [Cal Ins. Code 2051.5 (c)(2)] 37 Combining Coverages - If your home is destroyed due to a declared 38 emergency, and the amount of your Dwelling limits is too low to cover the cost of replacing the home, you can combine your insurance 39 benefits for the "Dwelling" and "Other Structures" categories and apply both categories toward the cost of replacing your home. [CA 40 Ins. Code 10103.7(a)] Some people also use a portion of their contents coverage toward the cost of replacing their home. 41 Personal Property (Contents) - In the event of a covered total loss 42 resulting from a declared state of emergency, your insurance company must offer payment of no less than 30% of your policy limit for your 43 Dwelling, as long as your home was furnished at the time of loss. [CA Ins. Code 10103.7] This special rule is designed to help get as much 44 cash as possible into your hands as quickly as possible. 45 Personal Property Inventory 46 If you are making a claim for contents related to a total loss of your primary residence, your insurer shall not require you to use a 47 company-specific inventory form. They must agree to accept any home inventory that you provide, if that form contains substantially the 48 same information. Moreover, they must also agree to accept reduced itemization, or "bulking" of items (i.e., "15 books" instead of 49 listing all titles). [CA Ins. Code 2061(a)(2)(3)] 50 Claim Handling and Time Frames 51 Your insurance company must disclose all benefits, coverages, time limits, or other provisions of any insurance policy that may apply to 52 the claim presented. When additional benefits might reasonably be payable under an insured's policy upon receipt of additional proofs 53 of claim, the insurer must immediately communicate this fact to you and cooperate with and assist you in determining the extent of their 54 liability. [10 CCR 2695.7(a)] 55 Processing your claim 56 15 days - Your insurance company must acknowledge that they have received your claim within 15 days after you give them notice. They 57 must provide you with the forms you're required to complete and provide you with reasonable assistance. [10 CCR 2695.5(e)] 58 Investigating your claim 59 15 days - Your insurance company must begin any necessary 60 investigation within 15 days of receiving your claim. [10 CCR 2695.5 (e)] 61 Every insurer shall conduct and diligently pursue a thorough, fair 62 and objective investigation and shall not persist in seeking information not reasonably required for or material to the resolution 63 of a claim dispute. [10 CCR 2695.7(d)] 64 Communicating information to you 65 15 days - Your insurance company must answer your questions and reply to your communications, including phone calls, emails, and letters, 66 immediately but in no event more than 15 calendar days. [10 CCR 2695.5(b)] 67 15 days - Upon request, your insurance company must produce a copy of 68 your claim-related documents within 15 days. [Cal Ins. Code 2071] 69 30 days - Upon request, your insurance company must provide you with a complete copy of your policy within 30 days. [Cal Ins. Code 2071; 70 2084] 71 75 days - California currently requires 75-day notice of an insurer's intent to non-renew a policy. [Cal Ins. Code 678 (c)(1)] 72 6 months - If, within a 6-month period, your insurance company 73 assigns a third (or subsequent) adjuster to handle your claim, the insurance company must provide you with a written status report. This 74 report must include a summary of losses and payments made, the amount of coverage, and whether they have hired any professionals to assist 75 with the claim. [Cal Ins Code 2071] If the claim arises from a state of emergency and you are assigned a third or subsequent claims 76 adjuster, the insurer shall provide the insured a primary point of contact and a direct means of communication. [Cal Ins. Code 14047] 77 Paying or denying your claim 78 40 days - The insurance company must accept or reject your claim in 79 whole or in part within 40 days of receiving proof of claim. If they reject your claim, they must list all factual and legal bases for 80 doing so with explanation of any applicable statute or other law. [10 CCR 2695.7(b)] 81 30 days - If the insurance company accepts your claim, they must pay 82 the undisputed portion of the claim immediately, but not later than 30-days. [10 CCR 2695.7(h)] 83 30 days- If an insurer needs more than 40 days to make a decision, 84 they must communicate to you in writing their need for more time. In addition, they must explain what they need to make their decision, 85 and provide an estimated time frame. [10 CCR 2695.7(c)(1)] 86 Preserving your rights 87 60 days - Your insurance company must provide written notice to you within 60 days of deadlines that cut off your right to collect 88 additional benefits or file a lawsuit. The notice must clearly state the time limit and how it will impact your rights. Look for language 89 that says, "Suit Against Us" or similar language, as this may start the clock ticking. [10 CCR 2695.7(f)] 90 Fair Depreciation 91 Almost every policy allows an insurance company to depreciate your 92 property to reflect its value at the time of the loss. They must consider both the age and condition of the property. [Cal Ins. Code 93 2051 (b)]; [10 CCR 2695.9] You generally have the right to collect the difference between that depreciated amount and what it costs you 94 to replace the property, depending on the policy language. You also have the right to know how your insurance company calculated 95 depreciation and how they calculated their settlement offer. [Cal Ins. Code 2071]; [10 CCR 2695.9] There are no "official" depreciation 96 schedules, insurance companies vary on these calculations, so you should advocate for fair valuation of your property. 97 Actual Cash Value (ACV) 98 ACV must be calculated as "the amount it would cost the insured to 99 repair, rebuild, or replace the thing lost or injured, less a fair and reasonable deduction for physical depreciation based upon its 100 condition at the time of injury." A deduction for depreciation can only be applied to things that normally "wear out" and cannot be 101 applied to labor. This definition applies to both total and partial losses. [Cal Ins. Code 2051] 102 SPECIAL TIME LIMITS for losses relating to a "State of Emergency" 103 Collecting Full Replacement Cost 104 For claims relating to a state declared emergency, you have no less 105 than 36 months from the date that the first payment toward actual cash value is made to collect your full replacement cost. [Cal Ins. 106 Code 2051.5(b)] Additional extensions of six months shall be provided to policyholders for good cause. 107 Additional Living Expense Coverage 108 For claims relating to a declared state of emergency, you have no 109 less than 24 months from the inception of the loss, but shall be subject to other policy provisions. An insurer shall grant an 110 extension of up to 12 additional months, for a total of 36 months, if you are acting in good faith and with reasonable diligence encounter 111 delays in the reconstruction process beyond your control. Additional extensions of six months shall be provided to policyholders for good 112 cause. [Cal Ins. Code 2060(b)(1)] 113 Time Limit to File a Lawsuit 114 For claims relating to a state declared emergency, the time limit to bring suit is 24 months from the date your claim is paid (or denied). 115 [Cal Ins. Code 2071] 116 Non-Renewal/Cancellation 117 For total loss claims caused by a disaster, the insurer shall offer to renew coverage for the next two annual renewal periods. The 118 insurer also cannot cancel coverage while a structure that suffered a total loss from a disaster is being rebuilt. [Cal Ins. Code 675.1(a)] 119 For claims relating to a state-declared emergency, insurers also 120 cannot cancel or refuse to renew a policy of residential property insurance for a property located in a ZIP code within or adjacent to 121 the fire perimeter for one year. The ZIP codes impacted are published in a bulletin by the Insurance Commissioner. [Cal Ins. Code 675.1(b)] 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 A B C D E F G 1 Rebuilding Information Rebuilding your home after a disaster is a complex but manageable process with the right preparation, decisions, and partnerships. 2 Whether you choose to rebuild or buy a replacement home, this section outlines critical steps, questions to ask, and tips for a successful recovery. 3 4 1. Rebuilding or Buying a New Home: You can use your insurance benefits to either rebuild your home or 5 purchase a replacement. Buying is ideal for those who want to avoid construction or relocate to a safer area. In states like California and Colorado, laws protect your right to 6 collect full insurance benefits for a replacement home without deductions for land value or code upgrades. Work with your insurer to determine the theoretical cost of 7 rebuilding your home (including upgrades and extensions), as this amount will guide your settlement. 8 Learn more here: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ buy-or-rebuild-faqs-on-replacing-a-dwelling-after-a-total-loss/ 9 10 2. Choosing the Right Contractor Hiring a qualified contractor is the most important step to ensure a 11 successful rebuild. Use these questions to evaluate potential contractors: 12 -Do you have a valid contractor's license, business license, and insurance? 13 -Can you provide detailed estimates, references, and proof of similar experience? 14 -Who will supervise the project, obtain permits, and assist with material selection? 15 -How do you manage billing, change orders, and scheduling? 16 -How will you protect my property during construction? Always check references, licenses, and past reviews. Consider working 17 with multiple contractors to get competitive bids or negotiate a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract for cost transparency. 18 Learn more here: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ questions-to-ask-a-repair-rebuilding-contractor/ 19 20 3. Negotiating and Managing Contracts 21 Strong Contract Terms: Avoid vague or open-ended agreements. Define clear costs, timelines, and responsibilities. 22 Insurance and Liability: Require General Liability insurance and a Builder's Risk policy to cover property damage during construction. Payment Protections: Avoid large upfront payments and ensure lien 23 releases are collected before issuing payments to avoid disputes with subcontractors. 24 Project Timelines: Include deadlines and penalties for delays to keep the rebuild on track. 25 Learn more here: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ rebuilding-101-a-guide-to-the-reconstruction-process/ 26 27 4. Managing Change Orders Expect changes due to unforeseen conditions or design adjustments. 28 Minimize costly changes by thoroughly reviewing plans and preparing for potential issues. 29 Always document change orders in writing, including cost and timeline impacts. 30 Learn more here: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ rebuilding-101-a-guide-to-the-reconstruction-process/ 31 32 5. Administering the Rebuilding Process Hold regular site meetings with contractors, architects, and key 33 stakeholders. Use written minutes to track progress, responsibilities, and any issues. 34 Address problems promptly to avoid escalating costs and delays. Written documentation is critical for resolving disputes. 35 Learn more here: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ rebuilding-101-a-guide-to-the-reconstruction-process/ 36 37 Key Takeaways 38 Be proactive in researching, hiring, and managing contractors to avoid costly mistakes. 39 Stay flexible and prepared for changes during construction. 40 Maintain thorough records of all agreements, payments, and progress to protect your interests. 41 Communicate openly with your contractor, insurer, and team to ensure a smooth rebuilding process. 42 43 A B C D E F G 1 Key Terms and Definitions 2 3 Term Definition 4 Actual Cash The value of an item minus depreciation. Value (ACV) Replacement The cost to replace an item without deducting 5 Cost Value depreciation. (RCV) 6 Depreciation A reduction in value based on age, wear, and tear. 7 Scope of Work The detailed outline of work required for repairs. 8 Policy Limits The maximum amount covered by your insurance for a specific claim. 9 Deductible The amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance begins to cover a claim. Loss of Use Coverage for temporary housing and additional living 10 Coverage (ALE) expenses incurred while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Endorsement An optional addition to your insurance policy that 11 (Rider) modifies coverage, such as adding flood or earthquake protection. A situation or event that is not covered by your 12 Exclusion insurance policy (e.g., floods in standard homeowners insurance). Adjuster An insurance professional who assesses property 13 (Claims damage and determines the payout for a claim. Adjuster) Public An independent claims adjuster hired by the 14 Adjuster policyholder to assist in negotiating a claim settlement. 15 Scope Creep When the scope of work expands beyond the original estimate, often leading to higher costs. 16 Appraisal A formal process for disputing the value of a loss Process between the policyholder and the insurance company. 17 Subrogation When your insurer seeks to recover costs from a third party responsible for the damage. 18 Catastrophic A significant loss event, often resulting in a Loss declared disaster or mass damage in a region. 19 Mitigation Steps taken to prevent further damage after a loss (e.g., tarping a damaged roof). 20 Proof of Loss A formal document submitted to the insurer detailing the loss and amount claimed. Replacement The projected cost to rebuild or repair a property 21 Cost Estimate based on current market rates. (RCE) 22 Claim The final agreement between the policyholder and the Settlement insurer regarding the amount to be paid for a loss. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P 1 Donation Tracker 2 Use this inventory to track any money, gifts, gift cards, food, service, or other donation received. 3 Check Box Thank 4 Item # Gift Gift/ Store (If Gift When You Type Amount Applicable) From Balance is Sent $0 5 1 6 2 7 3 8 4 9 5 10 6 11 7 12 8 13 9 14 10 15 11 16 12 17 13 18 14 19 15 20 16 21 17 22 18 23 19 24 20 25 21 26 22 27 23 28 24 29 25 30 26 31 27 32 28 33 29 34 30 35 31 36 32 37 33 38 34 39 35 40 36 41 37 42 38 43 39 44 40 45 41 46 42 47 43 48 44 49 45 50 46 51 47 52 48 53 49 54 50 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 A B C D 1 Mental Health and Recovery Recovering from a disaster can be emotionally challenging, and it's important to prioritize mental health and well-being. This 2 section provides contact information for trusted resources, hotlines, and guides to help you or your loved ones cope with trauma, stress, and the recovery process after a wildfire. 3 4 Resource Contact Website About Information 5 National Suicide 988 988lifeline.org Prevention Lifeline 6 SAMHSA Disaster 1-800-985-5990 www.samhsa.gov Distress Helpline 7 NAMI Helpline 1-800-950-NAMI www.nami.org 8 Crisis Text Line Text HOME to www.crisistextline.org 741741 9 Psychology Today psychologytoday.com 10 Tips for Survivors of a Traumatic Event 11 FEMA: Recovering from Disaster 12 MHA: Coping with Disaster Parent Guidelines for 13 Helping Children Impacted by Wildfires A B C D E 1 To Do List and Deadlines Staying organized is key to navigating the recovery process 2 effectively. This section provides a prioritized checklist of tasks with due dates and assigned responsibilities to help you manage critical steps 3 4 Task Description Priority Due Assigned Completion Level Date To Status 5 Notify your insurance company of High the home loss Request an advance payment from 6 your insurer (for ALE & High essentials) 7 Secure temporary housing (if High displaced) 8 Start a recovery log (track all High calls and communications) Take photos and videos of 9 property damage before any High cleanup 10 Prevent further damage (e.g., High board windows, tarp roof) 11 Keep all receipts for High disaster-related expenses 12 Confirm your policy details High (coverage, limits, deductible) Begin inventory of damaged or 13 lost items (see tab on this High spreadsheet) 14 Meet with the insurance adjuster High for initial inspection 15 Register with FEMA (if federally High declared disaster) 16 Arrange for debris removal Medium (including vehicle) 17 Contact a case manager for Medium additional assistance Confirm ALE (Additional Living 18 Expenses) coverage and submit Medium receipts 19 Review and document any repair Medium estimates received 20 Obtain multiple contractor bids Medium for repairs (at least 3) 21 Check licenses and references Medium for contractors 22 Avoid signing contracts under Medium pressure - review carefully 23 Track all claim communications Medium and disputes in a log 24 Follow up on insurance Medium reimbursement status Contact local disaster relief 25 organizations for additional Medium support 26 Review the emotional health Medium resources provided 27 Continue documenting all Medium communications and expenses 28 Review final settlement offer Medium with a professional (if needed) 29 Complete final repairs and Low inspections 30 Update home inventory for future Low disaster preparedness 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 A B C D E F G 1 Additional Resources 2 American Red Cross - Moving Forward After a Disaster 3 DisasterAssistance.gov 4 https://homeownershipmatters.realtor/issues/ what-to-do-when-disaster-strikes-rebuilding-after-a-wildfire/ 5 https://calrecycle.ca.gov/disaster/wildfires/homeowners/ 6 https://readyforwildfire.org/post-wildfire/after-a-wildfire/ https://www.redcross.org/get-help/ 7 how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/ wildfire.html 8 https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ speak-up-how-to-communicate-with-your-insurance-company/ 9 https://uphelp.org/disaster-recovery-help/2025cawildfires/ 10 https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/ 11 https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program/ road-to-recovery 12 American Red Cross - Cleaning Up Smoke Suggestions (English)