FOX Business' Cheryl Cazon joins “FOX & Friends First” to discuss the insurance crisis in California as wildfires ravage Los Angeles and broader concerns about how the industry is moving forward.
Affected residents California fires You may be inundated with calls from people offering to handle your claims, but it's important to work directly with the insurance company to begin the claims process, rather than through third-party adjusters.
That's according to Insurance Information Institute spokeswoman Janet Ruiz.
Ruiz told FOX Business that public third-party adjusters are not allowed to file claims immediately under rules created by the California Department of Insurance. Ruiz said the money to pay those people also comes from the residents' claims settlement.
When a person contracts with a public adjuster, they cannot work directly with them Insurance company In the claim process
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Most insurance companies have a mobile app where you can file a claim. But affected residents can also contact their insurance companies directly or contact them online. Ruiz said some insurance companies will have mobile units in the area, and some will give immediate checks to use for extra living expenses. Ruiz said they've also seen companies use debit cards instead of checks when mobile units are on site in a wildfire area. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) also uses debit cards.
An Altadena, Calif., resident walks away from his burning home in the Eaton Fire on Wednesday. (John Putman/Anadolu via Getty Images/Getty Images)
When a person contacts their insurance company, they should make sure they have a copy of their policy or understand what it covers. Residents should also try to make a list to go over everything that is damaged with the regulator.
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If the adjuster isn't helpful, Ruiz said residents should ask someone higher up in the company to help them. If they still need help, they can contact the California Department of Insurance.
Apartments are seen burning Wednesday from the Eaton fire, which has already killed five people, burned more than 2,000 buildings and forced more than 100,000 residents to evacuate Altadena, California. (John Putman/Anadolu via Getty Images/Getty Images)
Residents whose homes were completely destroyed, Ruiz said It has been destroyed by fires It will be a priority because they will usually have a claim inspection immediately.
Plumes of smoke are seen as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California, on Tuesday. (David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images/Getty Images)
“Some inspectors can use drones in the area to get early notice of damage. It's very helpful for everyone who needs help,” he said.
When it's safe to return home, Ruiz said residents should try to store damaged items until an insurance adjuster can inspect and evaluate the damaged item, if possible. It is also very important to take photos and videos of all damage as soon as possible.
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According to Ruiz, any car damage may be covered under a comprehensive car insurance policy.
While residents wait to return to their homes, additional living expenses are covered by insurance while they are forced to live elsewhere. It will also pay for food and temporary repairs, Ruiz said.