After an Oregon wildfire: what to do about your insurance claim

If you've been evacuated or lost your home, the claim is the last thing you want to think about. But decisions in the first weeks shape what your policy pays, because the first number anchors everything after it. Here's what to do, in order.

1. Get safe, then get your policy

Only return when officials say it's safe. Then ask your insurer for a certified copy of your full policy, including the declarations page and every endorsement. What you're owed depends on the policy wording.

2. Report the claim and keep a log

1. Report the loss promptly and write down your claim number.
2. Log every call: date, name, and what was said.
3. Ask for anything important in writing.

3. Document before anything is removed

Photograph and video every room, the exterior, and outbuildings. Keep damaged items until they've been documented. For a total loss, start a room-by-room contents list from memory, photos, and bank or credit card records.

4. Claim your living expenses

Most homeowner policies pay Additional Living Expense (ALE), also called Loss of Use, while you can't live at home. Many also pay when a civil authority orders an evacuation. Keep every receipt for lodging, extra meal costs, mileage, and pet boarding.

5. Know what's covered

• Dwelling (Coverage A): the house itself, including code-required upgrades where your policy allows.
• Other structures (B): detached garages, fences, sheds.
• Personal property (C): contents, often with money held back until items are replaced.
• Loss of use (D): living expenses while you're out of your home.
• Debris removal and trees: often a separate, limited coverage.

6. Check the first number before you accept it

Insurer estimates often miss code upgrades, matching materials, smoke cleaning, and contents. Before you sign anything marked "full and final," have someone on your side review it.

7. Get a public adjuster in your corner

Earliest is usually best: before the scope is set and the first offer is written. A licensed public adjuster represents you, not the insurer. Tell us what happened.