Wildfires In California Stress Importance Of Preparing For All T

Wildfires continue to burn in Southern California and hundreds of thousands have been forced to evacuate their homes. Already estimates are that more than one billion dollars worth of property has been damaged or destroyed. Insurance adjustors have been dispatched from across California and around the country to help start the recovery process.

Whether it's a fire, hurricane, flood or tornado, there are important steps to take after a disaster. Once authorities say it is safe to return, one of the first things homeowners should do is make sure the house is structurally safe. Fire damaged property may be hazardous and the potential for collapse may exist. Make temporary repairs if you can, to prevent unnecessary secondary damage, and keep your receipts. When hiring contractors, there are several precautions to take to avoid getting scammed. Get an estimate from several licensed bonded contractors, check their credentials with the Better Business Bureau or Home Builders Association, ask your neighbor what they're getting for similar work, inspect their licenses and proof of liability insurance and, most importantly, get a contract in writing. Avoid paying money up front. Some reputable contractors will require partial, up-front payment, but these pre-work payments shouldn't exceed the cost of materials or 20 percent of the total estimate.

If you return to find your home is destroyed or unlivable, find out what living expenses may be available though your insurer. Ask your utility company to stop billing your home, and notify creditors if bills are lost or if you're unable to pay.

After any disaster, the key is to report your claims promptly. Be aware, because if widespread devastation has occurred, the company may have set up special procedures.

Produced for Allstate