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
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.
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of your property before cleanup or debris removal.
Inventory damaged or lost items, including their approximate value.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.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.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.
