Florida Wildfires Demand ‘Reality Check,’ Insurers Say

TALLAHASSEE, FL — As the Sunshine State endures its worst wildfire season in recent history, property insurance companies are urging residents to make sure their finances and homes are both ready in case disaster strikes.

The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) issued a statement encouraging Florida homeowners and renters to do a “Wildfire Reality Check.” PCI is a trade organization with nearly 1,000 member companies on its roster, including many property casualty insurers in Florida.

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“Insurers are prepared to help begin the claims process for residents located in areas impacted by the wildfires that are continuing to plague the Sunshine State,” Logan McFaddin, PCI’s regional manager, said. “It is important to note homeowners’ insurance policies provide coverage for additional living expenses. This coverage can help move policyholders out of shelters and into a hotel room or rental property if they are forced to evacuate.”

If wildfires affect a home or business, McFaddin suggests contacting the insurer involved right away to get the claims process rolling. Making sure enough insurance is in place before a disaster strikes is also important, he added.

“Florida homeowners and renters need to make sure they are taking the proper steps to ensure their safety and call their agent or insurance company and do an annual insurance checkup,” McFaddin said. “Make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild your home. Renters can bundle a policy with their auto insurance so all of your belongings can be replaced.”

Using a smartphone to perform a home inventory is also recommended to ensure belongings are properly documented and covered. PCI reminds folks to open up drawers and closets to record belongings and also to make a video of the contents of garages.

“Taking a quick home video could help make all the difference in helping rebuild your home much easier,” he said.

Tips for Preparing Financially

PCI recommends homeowners and renters take these steps to make sure they are financially prepared for emergencies, such as wildfires:

• Read currently held insurance policies closely – Find out what home or renters’ policies cover and the type of damage they protect against.
• Review policies with an insurance company or agent – Take the time to make sure current coverage is adequate for existing circumstances in a home or rental. Talking with an insurance agent to go over policy options, including replacement costs and personal property coverage, is advised.
• Create that inventory – Creating and maintaining an inventory of personal items, including photos or videos of valuables, can be critical for helping with replacement if the need arises. Keep receipts for major purchases, as well. Copies of an insurance policy, inventory and major receipts should be stored in a safe, off-site location, if possible.

Tips for Preparing and Protecting Property

While it may not be possible to completely protect a home, there are steps that can be taken to lower wildfire-related risks. PCI recommends:

• Clearing out at least 100 feet of dead brush, grass and shrubs from around a home. This creates a “defensible” space.
• Cleaning rain gutters and roofs to make sure they are free from leaves, dirt and pine needles.
• Cutting back tree branches that overhang a home or are too close to a chimney. Clearance of about 6 feet between branches and the ground should be provided.
• Using fire-resistant landscaping, such as low-growing shrubs and deciduous trees.
• Removing wood piles or other wooden items that may be placed too near a home.
• Making sure fire extinguishers are available and operational.
• Keeping up with smoke and fire alarm batteries.
• Making sure an evacuation plan is in place and that evacuation drills are conducted to ensure all family members – including pets – can get out in an emergency.

As of May 12, the Florida Forest Service reported there were 138 wildfires burning on lands across the state under its jurisdiction. Those fires covered an estimated 31,024 acres combined. Three fires were also burning on 167,539 acres of federal land within Florida.

The full impacts of wildfire season remain to be seen, McFaddin told Patch.

“While it’s too early to get specific numbers on the amount of claims, we have seen an increase in the number of fires,” he said. “In fact, according to the National Interagency Fire Center, we have already seen more fires at the start of this year compared to the beginning of 2016. Florida right now has more active fires than any other state.”

For more information on wildfires in Florida, safety and burn bans, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services online.

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