How to Document Your Wildfire Losses
A wildfire claim depends on capturing the full scope of what you lost. Here is how to document it, at your pace.
The home and structures
Photograph the damage, and gather what you can about the home's value, features, and any improvements — deeds, appraisals, and old photos help.
Belongings and contents
List your belongings room by room as you remember them, with any photos, receipts, or records of value. This is tedious but important, and it can be reconstructed over time.
Income and business losses
Keep records of lost income and any business losses — pay records, tax returns, and financial statements — which establish the economic harm.
Health and injuries
Keep all medical records for injuries and smoke-related effects, and note any lasting symptoms in the weeks after.
Displacement and out-of-pocket costs
Save receipts for temporary housing, meals, replacement essentials, and other displacement costs — all recoverable.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to wildfire utility liability.
Not sure where you stand?
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This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.