What California homeowners should know about filing an insurance claim for fire damage
CBSN
As deadly wildfires engulf swaths of Los Angeles County, forcing nearly 200,000 people from their houses, a still-to-be known number of residents will be contending with insurance claims to recoup losses and rebuild or repair their homes. For those looking to be treated fairly and paid for damage and destruction to their property, speaking up and doing advance research is crucial, experts and consumer advocates say.
The good news? Unlike with flooding, a standard homeowners' policy covers destruction and damage caused by fire, including wildfires, and a standard renters' insurance policy covers the renter's personal belongings, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
The optional comprehensive part of a standard auto insurance policy covers vehicles against damage caused by fire and falling objects. Approximately 75% of U.S. drivers opt to buy it.