The Latest About the 2017 Wildfire Claims
Since October 2019, twenty-six insurance agencies have agreed to extend the time limits for the 2017 wildfire survivors to access their additional living expense benefits. The companies represent a majority of the total losses from the incredibly destructive and distressing wildfires in 2017 that affected Santa Rosa and other areas in Northern California.
To date, only around 20 percent of affected homes have been rebuilt, and many homeowners have faced unavoidable delays due to the scale of destruction as well as construction labor shortages. California Insurance Commissioner, Ricardo Lara, asked insurance companies to be more understanding of their customers who are still in the process of rebuilding their homes. He said, “Two years is clearly not enough time for people to get back on their feet in a disaster of this magnitude… The voluntary action by 26 insurance companies to extend additional living expense time limits is a step that will bring relief to those with benefits remaining while they continue to rebuild.”
Additional living expenses within a home insurance policy typically covers additional food and housing costs, furniture rental, relocation, storage, and extra transportation expenses. The benefit will vary by insurer – while some plans have a set dollar limit, some have a time limit, and others have no limits.
Now, some homeowners have less pressure to come up with funds while their property is still being repaired.
Please take time to review your own coverage to ensure you have plenty in place if the worst should happen. At Hoffman Brown Company, we’re always on the lookout for ways to stay safe. Contact us if you have any concerns or questions.
