Commissioner Dave Jones Responds to Wildfires
The Carr wildfire, which has been burning since July 23rd, has been forcefully tearing through Northern California for the last two weeks. The fire has already burned more than 120,000 acres, killed six people, and destroying over 1,400 structures. It is said to have been started when a car experienced some mechanical issues.
In response to increasingly deadly and destructive wildfires, California's Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has started several initiatives to aid in the recovery, and protect survivors affected by these natural disasters. The first action Jones initiated is a notice which requests that insurers expedite claims handling procedures for wildfire damage claims. In this action, Jones also requested more flexibility with deadlines and documentation requirements, which should result in more timely payments to policyholders. The Department of Insurance made it clear that under these disaster claims handling procedures, the policyholders may receive in advance up to 4 months of additional living expenses, 25% of policy limits for personal property, and an expedited process for debris removal. These measures are being taken in order to not delay the rebuilding process after the wildfire is extinguished. Other procedures would also speed up the payment for damaged vehicles, and provide at least 30 days of billing leniency for lost renewal notices for those who are unable to have their mail forwarded.
Commissioner Jones also issued a declaration of emergency for the situation caused by the wildfires. This declaration allows insurers to respond more quickly to claims by using qualified out-of-state adjusters who work under the insurance company's California license. For details about adjuster licensing requirements for catastrophe duty by state please see our chart Adjuster Licensing Requirements for CAT Duty 2018. In addition, Jones directed the Department of Insurance to issue a formal notice to all property insurers, independent insurance adjusters, and insurance agents and brokers to make sure all claims adjusters assigned to wildfire claims are trained on the California Unfair Practices Act, Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations, and all of the other California laws relating to relevant insurance claims handling.
Survivor policyholders are encouraged to contact their insurance company and agent to begin the claims process. Tips and advice can be found at the California Department of Insurance website at www.insurance.ca.gov, or through the Department of Insurance Consumer hotline at 800-927-4357, and there is a local assistance center assembled at Shasta High School from August 2-8 9am to 7pm.