Better if the Camp Fire burned down all the way?

May 11-- May 11--Insurance companies have also added to the price of recovery of Camp Fire evacuees.

Cheryl Elder Renwick and her husband have held a top-tier Farmers Insurance policy since the 1970s. Since their home didn't burn down, the insurance company is paying to have it cleaned, despite the fact that the entire top half of the home needs replacing, wood framing is falling apart, and heat damage has made the house uninhabitable.

"It almost would have been better if it just burned down," Renwick said.

While the company is paying $15,000 to have the home cleaned, quotes have told her the damage requires $35,000 worth of cleaning. And the company is allegedly skirting paying full damages: she was paid $165 for competition ribbons and $60 for a wind chime, but the company is fighting to cover the full extent of damages, including replacing furniture and mattresses.

The Renwicks have already paid $40,000 for repairs, but they're looking at another $100,000 in repairs.

"We're going to have to fight so much," Renwick said.

Assemblyman James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) hosted a roundtable Friday with insurance industry professionals to discuss challenges in the region in accessing quality and affordable insurance for homes and businesses. He plans to present findings to the state insurance commissioner this summer at a follow-up meeting.

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