Yet another windy, hot, and dry Southern California weather pattern has enabled several fires to destroy many homes in the cities of Montecito, Slymar, San Fernando, Corona, Anahiem Hills, Brea, & Yorba Linda. Thankfully I haven't heard of any casualites, but images of the burnt down homes are very provoking. It really makes me think about what I would have to deal with if my home was affected by a fire. I do live in against the hills, and my fire insurance premium reflects this.

I do have two resources that I would turn to if I needed help dealing with my insurance company. Mark Brifman, whose office is not too far from the Sayre fire in San Fernando Valley, and James Dension, whose office is in Woodland Hills. Both these attorneys have ample experience dealing with insurance companies. In fact, on Mark Brifman's website you'll find information specific to homeowners claims for fire damage.

Some things that I've learned from Attorney Brifman and Attorney Denison regarding dealing with your insurance company:

Be prepared: copies of documents, lists of items (perhaps a video to support this)
Cooperate: timelines are very important
Asses the damages: independent investigators are available
Settle on what is fair or fight?: you may need help from an attorney if you feel there is bad faith


Over 120 homes have been destroyed. Rebuilding a home after a fire must be tough. It must be even tougher if your insurance did not come through as you may have expected. Best to check those policies before anything happens.