The Insurance Claim

Understanding the Insurance Process After a Fire: A Guide for Homeowners in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena

The fires that swept through Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena on June 7, 2025, caused significant devastation, leaving many homeowners with the daunting task of navigating the insurance claims process. While this can feel overwhelming, understanding the steps involved and being well-prepared can help you secure the best possible outcome.

What to Do Immediately After the Fire

1. File Your Claim Promptly

   • Once you’re in a safe location, contact your insurance provider to file a claim.

   • Provide them with details about the fire, including the date, location, and extent of damage.

2. Document the Damage

   • Take photos and videos of your property before cleanup or debris removal.

   • Inventory damaged or lost items, including their approximate value.

3. Request an Advance Payment

   • If the fire resulted in a state of emergency declaration, insurance companies are required to pay a portion of your claim immediately.

   • You can expect up to one-third of your personal property coverage and at least four months’ rent for temporary housing.

4. Keep Detailed Records

   • Maintain a recovery diary that logs every interaction with your insurance adjuster, including dates, names, and what was discussed.

   • Save receipts for all expenses, such as hotel stays, meals, pet boarding, and furniture rentals.

How the Insurance Process Works

1. Inspection by an Adjuster
   An insurance adjuster will visit your property to assess the damage. They will determine the cost to repair or rebuild and what your policy covers.

   • Be present during the inspection to point out all damage.

   • Follow up with an email summarizing what was discussed for a clear paper trail.

2. Settlement Negotiations

   • Your insurance company may offer a settlement based on their assessment.

   • Review the offer carefully and consult a contractor if needed to ensure it’s sufficient to cover your rebuilding costs.

   • Avoid accepting a settlement labeled as “final payment” unless you are confident all expenses are covered.

3. Incremental Payments

   • The claims process often involves receiving payments in stages rather than a lump sum.

   • Track each payment and confirm how it relates to your total claim.

4. Rebuilding or Repairs

   • Use your settlement to begin repairs or a rebuild.

   • Ensure the contractor you hire is licensed, experienced, and familiar with fire damage restoration.

Tips for a Smooth Insurance Claim Process

• Get a Second Opinion: If the adjuster’s offer seems low, consider hiring an independent public adjuster to advocate on your behalf.

• Stay Organized: Create a digital folder for all receipts, photos, and communications with your insurance company.

• Understand Your Policy: Know what is covered under your policy, including temporary housing, personal property, and rebuilding costs.

• Don’t Rush Decisions: Avoid rushing into agreements or hiring contractors without proper vetting.

What If You Don’t Have Insurance?

For uninsured homeowners, recovering from a fire is more challenging but not impossible.

• FEMA Assistance: If the fire is declared a federal disaster, you may qualify for limited FEMA support.

• Local Resources: Visit disaster assistance centers for help replacing lost documents, accessing mental health resources, and finding community aid.

Protecting Your Home and Peace of Mind: How Lyons Development Helps You Move Forward

At Lyons Development, we understand how overwhelming it can be in the aftermath of a fire. Navigating the insurance process can feel like an uphill battle, but you don’t have to do it alone. Beyond rebuilding your home, protecting you and your property with the right insurance coverage is a vital part of the process. That’s why we include robust insurance protection as part of our services, giving you one less thing to worry about during this challenging time.

What Does Our Program Offer You?

1. Comprehensive Liability Protection
   We provide a Contractor Controlled Insurance Wrap Policy (CCIP), ensuring all contractors working on your home are fully insured under one plan. This means you’re protected from liability risks without having to worry about individual contractor coverage.

2. Builder’s Risk Coverage
   Rebuilding your home involves risks, from theft of materials to damage during construction. Our Builder’s Risk Policy protects your property throughout the rebuilding process, covering everything from materials to the structure under construction.

3. Seamless Protection
   Our policies are designed to be activated quickly for each new project. This means as soon as you sign with us, your home is protected without delay, ensuring no time is wasted in starting your restoration.

Why Choose Lyons Development for Your Restoration?

• Comprehensive Coverage: With liability and risk protection built into our program, you can focus on recovery without worrying about unexpected costs or setbacks.

• Speed and Efficiency: Our policies are designed to streamline the restoration process, so there are no delays caused by paperwork or approvals.

• Local Expertise: We’ve worked in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena for over 20 years, and we know how to navigate the unique challenges of rebuilding in these areas.

• Family-Operated Values: As a family-run business, we prioritize transparency, trust, and your peace of mind.

How This Benefits You

When you choose Lyons Development, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re partnering with a team that takes care of every detail, including your insurance needs. With our CCIP and Builder’s Risk Policies, you’re protected from start to finish, allowing you to rebuild with confidence and focus on what matters most: getting back to your life.

Get Started Today

If your home was affected by the recent fires, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive restoration services and how our insurance protection will give you the security and peace of mind you deserve.

Fire Damage Guide

Recovering from Fire Damage in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena: A Comprehensive Guide

The devastating fires that struck Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena on June 7, 2025, have left many families reeling from the loss of their homes and livelihoods. If you are one of those affected, we want you to know that you are not alone, and there are steps you can take to begin the recovery process. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you cope with the emotional toll of fire damage and outline the practical steps you need to take to restore your home and move forward.

Coping with the Emotional Impact

Fires are traumatic, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Here are a few ways to cope with the emotional aftermath:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel grief, anger, or frustration. Allow yourself time to process these emotions.

2. Lean on Your Support System: Reach out to family, friends, or support groups to share your experience and seek comfort.

3. Seek Professional Help: If the stress becomes too much, don’t hesitate to talk to a counselor or therapist who specializes in trauma recovery.

4. Focus on Small Wins: Taking proactive steps, even small ones, can help you regain a sense of control.

What to Do Immediately After the Fire

1. Ensure Safety First

• Do not return to your property until officials declare it safe.

• Wear protective clothing, gloves, and a mask if you need to inspect the property.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

• Notify your insurance provider about the fire as soon as possible.

• Document the damage with photos and videos before beginning any cleanup.

• Request a copy of your policy to understand what is covered and start the claims process.

3. Secure Your Property

• Prevent further damage by boarding up broken windows and covering damaged roofs with tarps.

• Contact us for emergency board-up services to secure your property quickly and safely.

4. Begin Cleanup and Debris Removal

• Fire cleanup requires specialized equipment to remove debris, ash, and hazardous materials safely.

• Our fire cleanup services include debris removal, smoke damage cleaning, and odor elimination to make your property safe and ready for repairs.

5. Request a Damage Assessment

• Have professionals assess the structural damage to your property.

• Our team at Lyons Development can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the best course of action—whether it’s a partial rebuild or full reconstruction.

6. Start the Rebuilding Process

• Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need:

  • Partial Rebuild: Repairing specific areas of your home while preserving the intact structure.

  • Full Rebuild: Demolishing the structure and starting fresh with a custom design.

• Our rebuilding services are fast, reliable, and designed to help you get back into your home as soon as possible.

What to Expect During the Restoration Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Damage Assessment

Our team will visit your property to assess the damage, listen to your needs, and create a customized restoration plan.

Step 2: Fire Cleanup and Remediation

We handle all aspects of fire cleanup, including debris removal, smoke damage cleaning, and mold prevention, ensuring your property is safe for repairs.

Step 3: Rebuild and Restoration

Our local team of experts will restore your home with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, matching your vision and timeline.

Step 4: Final Inspection and Move-In

Once the restoration is complete, we’ll walk you through the finished project to ensure everything meets your expectations.

How Lyons Development Can Help

As a local, family-operated business with over 20 years of experience, Lyons Development is uniquely equipped to help you recover from fire damage. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Rapid Response: Our teams are on standby and can be at your property immediately to begin the restoration process.

• Comprehensive Services: From fire cleanup to partial and full rebuilds, we handle every aspect of the recovery.

• Local Expertise: We understand the unique challenges faced by homes in Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and surrounding areas.

• Compassionate Approach: We treat every project with the care and professionalism it deserves.

Contact Us Today

If your home has been damaged by the fires, don’t wait to start your recovery. Lyons Development is here to help you rebuild quickly and efficiently.

Contact us online for a free consultation. Together, we’ll help you restore your home and reclaim your future.