Insurance is an important part of preparing for a wildfire. It can help your family recover financially after a disaster and pay for repairs or rebuilding. Disaster assistance may not cover all costs, so it is important to review your insurance coverage before a wildfire happens. Make sure you understand what your policy covers and keep your coverage up to date.

Prepare Your Insurance for Wildfire

• Review your insurance every year. Talk with your insurance agent or company at least once a year to review your coverage. Make sure your policy includes the correct size, features, and value of your home.
• Understand what your policy covers. Make sure you know whether your policy covers wildfire damage. Understand how your belongings would be replaced after a loss. Some policies pay the current cost to replace items, while others pay less based on the age and condition of the items.
• Update your policy after home improvements. Before making major renovations to your home, contact your insurance company. Changes to your home may affect your coverage.
• Keep your insurance active. Even after paying off your mortgage, it is important to keep homeowner's insurance. Insurance can help you recover after an unexpected disaster.
• Get renters insurance. Renters can lose their belongings in a fire too. Renters insurance can help replace your belongings and provide financial protection after a disaster.

Make a Home Inventory

Recovering after a disaster can be easier if you have a record of your belongings. Create a home inventory before a wildfire or other emergency happens:

• Take photos or videos of each room. Remember to include your garage, closets, and drawers.
• Describe your belongings. In your video, describe each item and include details such as how much you paid, where you bought it, and when you purchased it.
• Document important or expensive items. Make sure to include electronics, appliances, televisions, computers, tablets, and other valuable belongings.
• Save receipts for major purchases. Store your home inventory and receipts in a safe location outside your home, online, or in a fireproof container so they are available if your home is damaged.

Filing a Wildfire Claim

If your property has been damaged by a wildfire, follow these steps:

• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. An insurance adjuster may visit your home to inspect the damage. You may be asked to complete a "proof of loss" form, which includes information about damaged items, when they were purchased, and the cost to replace or repair them.
• Do not throw away damaged items. If it is safe to do so, keep damaged items until your insurance company has inspected them and documented the damage.
• Know what you need to do. Ask your insurance company about the steps required to complete your claim, such as getting repair estimates.
• Know your claim deadlines. Ask your insurance company about any deadlines for filing your claim. Make sure you submit your claim on time.