LA Wildfire Resources
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The Wildfire Wake-Up Call: Are You Properly Insured?
Southern California has seen its fair share of devastating wildfires, leaving many homeowners facing not only the loss of their property but also the shocking reality that their insurance policies don’t fully cover the cost of rebuilding.
Now, legal battles are brewing. More attorneys are stepping in, and class action lawsuits are forming against insurance companies accused of underinsuring homeowners. While this could lead to positive changes in insurance policies, it may also bring unintended consequences—higher premiums, new policy requirements, and added costs for homeowners.
What This Means for You
If you own property, it’s more important than ever to review your insurance policy and make sure you’re fully covered. Here’s what you need to check:
? Rebuilding Costs – Does your policy reflect current construction costs? Prices have risen significantly in recent years.
? Coverage Limits – Are you insured for the full value of your home, or just a fraction of it?
? Disaster Coverage – Are wildfires explicitly covered in your policy, or are there exclusions?
? Liability Protection – If your home is damaged but still standing, do you have coverage for temporary housing, repairs, and legal liabilities?
What You Can Do Right Now
1. Call Your Insurance Provider – Ask for a full policy review to ensure you’re not underinsured.
2. Get an Independent Opinion – Consult with an insurance professional or real estate expert (like me!) to evaluate your coverage.
3. Plan for Rising Costs – Be prepared for potential increases in premiums or new policy requirements in the coming years.
Need Guidance? Let’s Talk.
If you’re a homeowner, investor, or landlord, I’m here to help. Whether you need insights on your insurance, want to explore selling, or need help managing your rental properties, let’s connect for a no-obligation consultation.
Also, I have wildfire recovery resources available on my website, including links to insurance claim support, rebuilding guides, and legal insights-reach out today! I’m here to help you navigate your next steps. Email: RealtorRobertOrtega@gmail.com
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Wildfire Resources for the Los Angeles Community
Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area. During this challenging time, we stand united as a community. Below, you'll find valuable resources for assistance, staying informed, and ways to give back. Please share this page with anyone in need. Together, we can help rebuild and support each other.
How to Get Help
FEMA Assistance:
- Online: DisasterAssistance - https://www.disasterassistance.gov
- FEMA App: Available for mobile devices
- Call: 1-800-621-3362 (4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST, multilingual help available)
Housing Assistance:
- 211LA Housing Services - https://www.211la.org: Partnered with https://www.Airbnb.org for free stays for displaced individuals and families.
Emergency Shelters:
- Visit CalOES Shelters - https://www.caloes.ca.gov for a list of open shelters.
- American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org or 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Food Assistance:
- LA Regional Food Bank - https://www.lafoodbank.org or call 323-234-3030.
Mental Health Support:
- Call or text 988 or visit 988 Lifeline Chat - https://www.988lifeline.org.
- LA County Department of Mental Health: 1-800-854-7771 or text “LA” to 741741.
Animal and Pet Support:
- LA Animal Services: https://www.laanimalservices.com or call 888-452-7381.
- RedRover Relief Program: https://www.redrover.org.
Insurance Moratorium Update
The California Department of Insurance has announced a mandatory one-year moratorium on insurance non-renewals and cancellations for homeowners impacted by the Southern California wildfires. This includes: Homeowners within the perimeters or adjoining ZIP Codes of the Palisades and Eaton fires. Protection regardless of whether the homeowner suffered a loss, as declared under the Governor’s January 7 emergency declaration.
Key links for updates and resources:
- Check your ZIP code - https://www.insurance.ca.gov
- United Policyholders updates - https://www.uphelp.org
- California Department of Insurance Website - https://www.insurance.ca.gov Legal live webinars and insurance workshops
- C.A.R. Resources - https://www.car.org/difference/realtorscare/cadisasterresources Smart Zone disaster recovery resources
Staying Informed
Evacuation Alerts & Updates:
- Sign up for alerts - https://www.ready.lacounty.gov.
- Real-time fire information - https://www.fire.ca.gov.
- Air quality updates - http://www.aqmd.gov.
Evacuation Tips:
- Plan three exit routes.
- Pack a Go Bag with essentials.
- Listen for evacuation warnings and orders.
- More guidance: Ready CA - https://www.ready.ca.gov.
How to Give Back
Trusted Donation Platforms:
- Philanthropy California - https://www.philanthropyca.org.
Volunteer Opportunities:
- California Volunteers - https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov.
Donation Drop-Offs:
- Location: 13470 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292.
- Dates: January 11–19, 9 AM–4 PM.
- Supplies needed: Water, blankets, toiletries, diapers, toys, small electronics, and clothing.
Financial Assistance
Tax Relief for Property Damage:
- File for reassessment with LA County Assessor’s Office - https://www.assessor.lacounty.gov/tax-relief/disaster-relief.
- Proposition 19: Transfer property tax base after disaster. Details at Prop 19 Resources - https://www.assessor.lacounty.gov/prop-19.
Insurance Claims:
- Guidance from California Department of Insurance - https://www.insurance.ca.gov.
Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
- Stay indoors and monitor air quality.
- Use N95 masks outdoors.
- Replace air filters regularly.
Important Reminder
California’s price-gouging laws are active. Be cautious of inflated prices and report violations to the Attorney General’s Office - https://www.oag.ca.gov. For real estate inquiries, there may be opportunities for sellers to leverage current market needs, while buyers could explore options for properties from owners seeking to relocate. Consult with a trusted professional to navigate these opportunities responsibly.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know needs assistance, or if you have questions about housing or community resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make a difference.
Robert Ortega, Agent & Associates
(818) 7-BE-HOME or (818) 723-4663
Los Angeles (310) 890-3434