In response to the devastating wildfires across Southern California, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has issued crucial protections for homeowners. These include a one-year moratorium on insurance cancellations and non-renewals for properties impacted by the Palisades and Eaton fires, ensuring residents aren’t burdened with finding new coverage during this crisis. Commissioner Lara is committed to safeguarding wildfire survivors and supporting their recovery through additional measures, including workshops, fraud prevention, and ensuring fair insurance practices.
Key Points
- Mandatory Insurance Moratorium: A one-year pause on non-renewals and cancellations for properties within or near fire-affected areas, based on the Governor’s January 7 emergency declaration.
- Supplemental Protections: Pending non-renewals or cancellations issued up to 90 days before January 7 are paused for six months to support recovery efforts.
- Consumer Support: A free two-day workshop on January 18–19 and other resources for survivors to understand claims processes and available rebuilding support.
- Health Care and Fraud Protections: Emergency plans to maintain access to medical services and crackdowns on fraud targeting wildfire victims.
- Evacuation Benefits Awareness: Guidance on Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage for food, housing, transportation, and more during evacuation and recovery.
- Insurance Tips for Residents: Emphasis on documenting interactions with insurers, checking adjusters’ licenses, and maintaining an inventory of possessions for claims.
Residents can contact the California Department of Insurance at 1-800-927-4357 or visit insurance.ca.gov for assistance.
View full Press Release here
