If your home, property, or business was affected by a wildfire in California—like the Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, or any of the many destructive fires across the state—you may have already filed an insurance claim. But here’s the problem many homeowners and business owners face:

Insurance companies often underpay wildfire claims—or deny them altogether.

At Pacific Wildfire Attorneys, we’ve seen it happen time and time again. Property owners are left with mounting repair costs, lost belongings, and a long road to recovery—only to receive a lowball settlement that doesn’t come close to covering their actual losses. If this has happened to you, know this: You are not alone, and you have legal options.

Why Do Insurance Companies Minimize Wildfire Claims?

Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to limit payouts and protect their bottom line, even if it means shortchanging policyholders who have paid their premiums for years.

Common tactics used to minimize wildfire claims include:

• Claiming damages are minor or unrelated to the wildfire
• Ignoring smoke, soot, and ash contamination
• Refusing to pay for long-term health or structural issues
• Delaying communication to pressure quick, low settlements
• Asking for excessive documentation to stall or confuse the process

Many people accept these low offers because they’re overwhelmed, unsure of their rights, or simply trying to move on.

What Can You Do If Your Claim Was Underpaid or Denied?

If your insurance company has offered a settlement that seems too low or denied your claim completely, don’t assume that’s the final word. You have the right to challenge their decision and seek the full value of your losses.

Here’s what you can do:

• Get a second opinion on the value of your claim
• Document all damages thoroughly, including smoke and ash exposure
• Consult with a wildfire attorney who understands how to handle insurance disputes
• Avoid signing anything until you’ve reviewed your options

At Pacific Wildfire Attorneys, we represent property owners throughout California who have been underpaid or denied by their insurers. Our team works to build a strong case, bring in professional assessments when needed, and push back against unfair insurance tactics.

What Damages Might Be Overlooked by Insurance?

Even if your home wasn’t burned to the ground, you may still have serious damage. Insurers often overlook:

• Smoke and ash residue in HVAC systems, walls, clothing, furniture, and electronics
• Roof and window seal damage from high heat or embers
• Air quality issues and health risks from exposure
• Business interruption losses
• Temporary relocation and loss of use
• Emotional distress and diminished property value

These aren’t minor issues—they can significantly impact your home, health, and financial stability. You deserve compensation that reflects the full extent of your loss.

We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Do

At Pacific Wildfire Attorneys, we work on a contingency fee basis—which means you don’t pay anything unless we recover money for you. That way, you can focus on healing and rebuilding while we handle the legal battle.

We’ve helped clients across California recover far more than their insurance companies originally offered, and we’re ready to do the same for you.