In the wake of the tragic fires sweeping across the Los Angeles area, the Bryson team has created a step-by-step tutorial on how to file an insurance claim. This 12-step guide will help you begin the process.

Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately

Contact your insurer: Call your insurance company’s claims department as soon as possible. Provide your policy number and report the total loss due to fire.

Step 2: Request Additional Living Expenses

Request immediate assistance: Ask about an advance on your claim to cover essential living expenses like housing, clothing, and food.

Step 3: Gather Essential Information

Collect key documents:
Insurance policy
Fire department report or incident number
Personal ID and proof of ownership for the property (deed, mortgage statement, etc.)

Create a loss inventory list:
List everything destroyed in the fire, including personal belongings and property details. Include approximate values and purchase dates for each item if possible. Don’t worry about perfection; additional details can be provided later.

Step 4: Document the Total Loss

Take photos or videos: If safe to visit the property, document the site to show total destruction. If you cannot access the property, rely on drone footage, fire department reports, or media coverage for evidence. Save receipts for temporary expenses: Keep all receipts for hotels, meals, transportation, and purchases made as a direct result of displacement.

Step 5: File the Insurance Claim

Submit your claim: Use your insurer’s online portal, mobile app, or contact the claims representative to initiate the claim. Clearly state the fire resulted in a total loss and include available documentation. Provide required information: Include details about the cause of the fire (if known). Upload the fire department report and photos of the property.

Step 6: Request Additional Living Expenses (ALE)

Understand what ALE covers: Temporary housing (hotel, rental home). Food and meal costs above normal spending. Transportation and other necessary expenses.
Track and submit receipts: Keep detailed records of all additional expenses to ensure reimbursement.

Step 7: Avoid Predatory Adjusters

Be cautious of unsolicited offers: Avoid working with adjusters or public adjusters who approach you directly at hotels, shelters, or through paid ads promising quick payouts or exaggerated claims. These “ambulance chasers” often target vulnerable victims and may not act in your best interest. Verify credentials:

If you choose to hire a public adjuster, ensure they are licensed in California and have a strong reputation (check references and online reviews).

Step 8: Work with the Insurance Adjuster

Prepare for the inspection: Schedule a meeting with the insurance adjuster assigned by your insurer. Provide a complete inventory list and any supporting documentation.
Be proactive: Walk the adjuster through the loss inventory, emphasizing the total destruction. Clarify coverage terms, including the replacement cost for belongings and the dwelling.

Step 9: Review the Claim Settlement

Understand the settlement offer: Ensure it includes coverage for the full replacement value of your home and possessions. Check for debris removal, rebuilding costs, and ALE reimbursement.

Negotiate if necessary: If the settlement seems insufficient, provide additional evidence or consult a trusted, verified public adjuster or insurance lawyer.

Step 10: Start Rebuilding or Replacing

Hire licensed professionals: Work with insured contractors and vendors for debris removal and rebuilding.

Replace personal property: Use the claim payout to replace lost belongings as outlined in your policy.

Step 11: Explore Additional Resources

Seek community and government aid: Contact local nonprofits and government disaster relief programs (like FEMA or Red Cross) for additional assistance. Consider legal or professional support: If delays or disputes arise, consult a verified professional with experience in fire claims.

Step 12: Stay Organized

Maintain a claim file: Save all correspondence, receipts, and documents related to the claim.

Follow up regularly: Stay in contact with your insurer to ensure the claim progresses without unnecessary delays.