Department of Insurance: California Residents Forced to Evacuate Could Tap Insurance for Cost Reimbursement
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Insurance may help evacuated residents even if homes are not damaged
Thousands of residents from
"With sometimes only minutes to evacuate, residents often escape with only the clothes on their backs," said Insurance Commissioner
Many homeowners are unaware they may have insurance coverage under their homeowner and renter policies to help them with evacuation and recovery expenses under additional living expense coverage, known as ALE. ALE coverage typically includes food and housing costs, furniture rental, relocation and storage, and extra transportation expenses.
The department is urging evacuees to contact their insurer to verify their ALE coverage provision, limits and learn about requirements to use the coverage. It is critical to keep all receipts and document the date, time and names of any insurance company employees you speak to regarding your coverage and details of the conversation.
Here are some tips for consumers:
* Policy provisions, including deductibles, vary by company, residents should check with their insurer or agent as soon as possible to confirm coverage, limits, and any other limitations and documentation requirements. Most renters' policies also typically include ALE coverage.
* Consumer should make sure any insurance agent or public adjuster offering their services has a valid license by checking online with the
* Public adjusters cannot solicit business for seven calendar days after the disaster.
* Don't forget copies of insurance policies, important papers and a photo or video inventory of your possessions. Keep all receipts accrued during the evacuation. An inventory can be completed quickly and easily on your smart phone and safely stored in the Cloud.
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