Homeowners in California’s Wine Country impacted by destructive wildfires are just beginning to comprehend the devastation as they start to navigate the process of fixing or rebuilding their damaged property. The process of dealing with insurance companies following a wildfire can be emotionally taxing, and even more so if you encounter denial of coverage by an insurance company that looks for ways to escape its obligation to investigate or pay you for a claim.

For those who are picking up the pieces, you’ll want to contact your insurance company as soon as possible and make a wildfire claim. An insurance adjuster may do an onsite visit to assess the damage. You’ll want to document evidence through photographs or video. Writ down a home inventory list that you can provide your insurer along with a “proof of loss” form which included a description of damaged or destroyed items.