Consumer Advisory: Division of Insurance is Here to Help Coloradans with Wildfire Insurance Matters

Consumer Advisory: Division of Insurance is Here to Help Coloradans with Wildfire Insurance Matters

DENVER - DENVER - As multiple wildfires are burning across the state, the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), reminds Coloradans that it exists as a resource on all matters of insurance. While remaining safe, checking on family and neighbors, and taking care of the basics (food, shelter, clothing) are the most important things during a wildfire, insurance will soon be a top concern for many people.

DOI can help Coloradans with their insurance questions, including getting the contact information for insurance companies and agents or asking how to file a claim. Contact the Consumer Services Team at 303-894-7490 / 800-930-3745 (outside of the Denver metro area) / [email protected] or visit our website, doi.colorado.gov (click on "File a Complaint").

Governor Polis verbally declared multiple fires as disaster emergencies.

"As communities across Colorado are grappling with fires, we want you to know that the Division of Insurance is here to ensure that insurance companies provide whatever assistance is possible. You are not alone. Our consumer services team can help walk you through whatever questions you have, and our job is to make sure insurance companies are delivering on their promises," said Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway.

It is always important for homeowners to know what their insurance policies provide, but in the event of an evacuation, locating those documents can be difficult. The Division will be closely monitoring that all consumer protections are afforded to impacted homeowners. In particular, the Division will be closely analyzing compliance with the following requirements:

• Homeowners insurance companies are required to provide policyholders with a copy of their policy within 3 business days of the policyholder's request. This can be helpful to people who have been evacuated or who do not have access to the internet.
• Homeowners insurance policies cover the contents of the home as well as the structure. If you've lost your owner-occupied home (meaning you own and live in the home) in a fire that the Governor has declared a disaster, Colorado law requires insurance companies to immediately pay you 65% of the total contents coverage you have in your policy, without requiring an inventory. As of the date of this press release, the Governor has declared four fires a disaster: the Snyder, Gold Mountain, Aspen Acres, and Willow fires.
• Homeowners or renters insurance typically includes coverage for additional living expenses (ALE), which may pay for temporary housing and extra costs of living like hotel, meals, and laundry while evacuated.

Insurance Information and Reminders

• Everyone should make safety their first priority. Do not return to your home until authorities allow you to do so. Do not endanger yourself or others to assess damage.

Contact Information

• Homeowners / Auto Insurance Company Claims Filing Telephone Numbers

Evacuations

• If you've been evacuated, contact your insurance agent or company representative to let them know where you are staying. Not only can they help you with coverage or claims questions, they can help find lodging options as many people in the area will be temporarily displaced.
• Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage can vary, so, if possible, check with your insurance company or agent about your coverage. Save all receipts for expenses that may be reimbursed.
• If you are unable to live in your house or apartment because of a wildfire, most policies will also reimburse you the difference between your additional living expenses and your normal living expenses. However, these may be subject to a deductible.

Filing Claims - Homeowners, Renters and Businesses

• Start the claim process as soon as you can - For your home, any out buildings, and vehicles, you'll want to contact your insurance company or agent right away to begin the claim process.
• Document the damage - Only when it is safe to do so, try to document the damage as best as you are able by taking photos.
• Ask questions - Throughout the process, you are entitled to know what's happening. If your agent, insurance company, or adjuster don't provide you with information, or tell you something that you don't understand, ask questions.

Other Losses People May Experience

Affected homes may have suffered damage that can be dealt with through insurance:

• Smoke damage
• Water damage
• Electrical infrastructure, especially due to extreme heat
• Other interior damage due to extreme heat

Know Your Policy

It is important to become familiar with your property insurance policy, as well as your auto policy. Know what's covered and what isn't. Contact your insurance agent or insurance company for explanations if something is not clear.

DOI's Post-Disaster Claims Guide is available to help you navigate insurance claims.

If you have questions about insurance, contact the Division of Insurance. While claims need to be filed with the insurance companies, the DOI can provide assistance and answer questions about insurance and the claims process - our Consumer Services Team is a dedicated unit for helping Coloradans work with and understand their insurance. Please do not wait to contact the Division - we would much rather hear from people sooner rather than later. Contact the DOI Consumer Services team at 303-894-7490 / [email protected] / doi.colorado.gov

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