The panelists noted that insurance companies are also currently prohibited under a one-year moratorium from canceling insurance policies in the fire zones, but companies may rescind coverage for other reasons, such as if the insurer discovers a misrepresentation, like if a policyholder isn’t the official owner of the destroyed property, or if structures were built on the property that weren’t disclosed to the insurance company.
Anyone returning to their homes to assess damage should wear steel-toed boots, masks, and take necessary safety precautions, because the soil is likely contaminated with toxic chemicals. The panelists added that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will likely scrape any destroyed lots to remove toxins before homes can be rebuilt.
Throughout the discussion, panelists warned that fire victims should be prepared for a lengthy, emotional process, and while they should document everything, they should give themselves some grace.
“Pace yourself, take breaks,” Riddle suggested. “You’re running a marathon here, not a sprint.”
