A quick summary of what your insurance could cover after a wildfire
With Western Washington now seeing its share of wildfire activity, it’s a good time to get your home plan together, not just with an evacuation in mind but your finances as well.
The good news is that wildfire damage is covered by standard home, renters and business insurance policies, according to the Northwest Insurance Council, “and insurance is available for homes in the Wildland-Urban Interface areas of Washington, Oregon and Idaho.”
Preparation should begin before you face any imminent threat. Take an inventory of your personal possessions, a process made easier with various home-inventory apps available online or offered by your insurance company.
What’s typically covered?
According to the insurance council:
▪ Coverage for wildfire damage or destruction typically includes the main structure, additional buildings and the contents inside your home or business.
▪ Landscaping, such as trees, plants, shrubs and lawns, damaged by wildfire is covered up to specified amount.
▪ Additional living expenses are covered if you are unable to live in your home or apartment as a result of the fire. That could include coverage for living expenses if you are forced out in an evacuation.
“Most policies will reimburse you the difference between your additional living expenses and your normal living expenses. Keep receipts and records of your expenses,” the council noted.
Additional living expenses might be covered even with an evacuation order that keeps you from returning to your home. Contact your insurance agent for clarification.
▪ Optional Business Interruption Insurance covers loss of revenue “resulting from an insured loss that disrupts business operations. It also can provide extra expenses so the business can operate from a temporary location while repairs are made to your place of business,” according to the insurance council.
▪ Optional comprehensive plans can cover damage to your vehicle caused by wildfire. Personal items in the car (not attached to the vehicle) are covered under homeowners or renters insurance policy.
The council on Tuesday offered a further list of tips if you are faced with wildfire damage to your home or business:
▪ If your home is damaged or destroyed by wildfire, contact your insurance representative as soon as possible. While it is helpful to have your policy documents, it is not essential or required to start the claims process.
▪ Take pictures or video of your damaged property only if/when it is safe to do so.
▪ Don’t toss anything damaged until your claims adjuster has a chance to review.
The council also advises to watch out for repair scams. Don’t pay a significant amount for temporary repairs unless authorized by your adjuster. Always check a repair company’s record with your state regulators and the Better Business Bureau.
More information is available at nwinsurance.org
This story was originally published September 8, 2020 at 4:06 PM with the headline "A quick summary of what your insurance could cover after a wildfire."
