Deadliest Wildfires in California History
Explore the details of the top 10 deadliest wildfires in California state history, from the Camp Fire to the Eaton Fire, with this list from the WFCA.
Navigate the challenges of wildfire recovery with practical tips on managing insurance and restoring your home, provided with expert guidance from the WFCA.
Published:January 21, 2025
Edited:January 28, 2025
Navigate the challenges of wildfire recovery with practical tips on managing insurance and restoring your home, provided with expert guidance from the WFCA.
The recovery process after a wildfire can be overwhelming, but acting quickly and following these steps may make the process smoother and help you secure the compensation you need. Each insurer has specific procedures and deadlines that must be followed, so timely action is crucial. Knowing what to do and how to document your losses can make a significant difference in the efficiency of your claim.
The first step after a wildfire is to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. An insurance adjuster may visit your property to assess the damage, and you will likely need to complete a “proof of loss” form. This form requires a description of each damaged item, including its approximate purchase date and the cost to repair or replace it—making a home inventory especially helpful.
Avoid discarding any damaged items, even if safe to do so, until an insurance representative has had the chance to assess the damage. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for filing your claim, such as whether repair estimates are needed, and ask your insurance provider about these details. Keep an eye on filing deadlines, as these vary by state and insurer. Meeting these deadlines ensures you don’t miss your opportunity to receive compensation for your losses.1
Insurance policies typically cover damage caused by wildfires, but acting quickly can help streamline the process and avoid missing deadlines. By initiating contact early, you can get guidance on how to assess and document the damage, as well as what to expect during the claims procedure. Here are the steps you should follow to reach your insurer and begin your claim3:
Recovering from a wildfire goes beyond filing insurance claims. By taking practical steps and connecting with local support networks, you can navigate the overall recovery process more smoothly. Here are additional actions to consider as you work toward rebuilding:
Whether you’re in the process of rebuilding or simply looking to prepare for unexpected events, it’s important to create and maintain a current home inventory. Start by going through each room of your home and documenting your possessions. Also, inventory items outside your home, including equipment in garages or shops, tools, vehicles, boats, ATVs, and outdoor furnishing. Make a detailed list of items, including their brand, model, serial numbers, and approximate purchase dates.
For valuable items, note their condition and estimated replacement cost. Take clear photographs or videos of your belongings from multiple angles to provide visual proof of their existence and condition. Store this inventory in a safe, easily accessible location, such as a cloud storage service, to ensure it’s protected in case of a disaster. A comprehensive home inventory not only helps streamline the claims process but also ensures you don’t miss any items when it’s time to file a claim after damage occurs.2
Explore the details of the top 10 deadliest wildfires in California state history, from the Camp Fire to the Eaton Fire, with this list from the WFCA.
Navigate the challenges of wildfire recovery with practical tips on managing insurance and restoring your home, provided with expert guidance from the WFCA.
Explore the details of the top 10 most destructive wildfires in California’s history and how they compare to the Palisades Fire with this list from the WFCA.