If your home is unsafe or uncomfortable to live in, you may need to stay elsewhere for a while. If you can't find a place to stay, such as with family or friends, consult your insurance company to see if you are covered for additional living expenses. If you aren't insured and need assistance, the American Red Cross (408-577-1000) may be able to provide temporary shelter.

Secure Your Property

To help prevent further damage or theft, board up your property as soon as possible. The San José Fire Department can assist by contacting a fire recovery contractor on your behalf. These professionals can work directly with your insurance company to arrange board-up services, as well as smoke and water removal. You may also contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about similar services. Additionally, if you will be away from your home, it's a good idea to notify your local police department's non-emergency line.

Secure Your Valuables

If you must leave your home, secure your house against theft and bring important items with you. If identification or medical items have been destroyed, replace them as soon as you can (see: After a Fire: Recovering Financially). Here are some common items to remember:

• Eyeglasses
• Money and credit cards
• Checkbooks
• Hearing aids
• Essential medications
• Important legal documents
• Identification (e.g., driver’s license and passport)
• Insurance policies
• Jewelry

Changing Your Mailing Address

If you move, you may want to change your mailing address, depending on your unique situation. Here are some things to consider when making this decision:

• When you MAY NOT need to change your mailing address:
  • If you're only in a hotel for a couple of weeks and can still access your home mailbox safely.
  • If a trusted neighbor or friend is available to collect your mail.
• When you MAY want to change your mailing address:
  • If you’ll be out of your home for more than a couple of weeks. 
  • If you don’t have someone regularly checking your mailbox.
  • If you’re not sure how long you’ll be gone.

If you want to change your mailing address, you can set up a temporary mail forwarding address with USPS, either to your hotel, a trusted family member, or a P.O. box.

Utilities Shut Off

During a fire, the San José Fire Department or PG&E may shut off utility services as a safety precaution in order to prevent further damage to the structure. Utility companies cannot restore utilities until necessary repairs have been conducted, approved, and clearance has been issued by the City's Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement Department. Contact your utility provider directly to begin the process of restoring utility services.

Notice to Food Establishments: If the damaged property is a food service establishment, you will have to contact the Santa Clara County Public Health Department (408-792-5040) to get inspection and clearance before reopening.