News: 2009 Press Release
For Release: August 28, 2009
Media Calls Only: 916-492-3566
Commissioner Poizner Reminds Mandatory Day, Gloria &
Station Fire Evacuees that Insurance May Cover Living Expenses
Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner reminded residents who have been
evacuated due to the Day Fire (Lassen County), Gloria Fire (Monterey County) and
Station Fire (Los Angeles County) that they may be eligible for reimbursement
for additional living expenses due to mandatory evacuations. Commissioner
Poizner also encouraged all Californians to make sure their insurance policies
are updated and to conduct a home inventory today.
"Facing the loss of a home due to wildfire is one of the most frightening and
stressful experiences someone can go through," said Commissioner Poizner. "I
urge everyone who has been evacuated from their home to check their homeowners
insurance policies because many cover additional living expenses incurred as a
result of a mandatory evacuation. Coming up with extra money for room, board and
other additional living costs are the last thing fire evacuees should have to
worry about. Check your policy, and if you have any insurance questions, call
the Department of Insurance at 800-927-HELP."
The Day Fire, which started on Aug. 27, has burned 1,000 acres and 25 homes
are threatened. Mandatory evacuations are underway.
The Gloria Fire, which also started on Aug. 27, has burned 5,000 acres,
destroyed one home and an additional 100 homes are threatened.
The Station Fire, which started on Aug. 26, has burned 1,200 acres. More than
600 homes are threatened and 800 homes are subject to mandatory evacuations.
Many residential homeowners insurance policies cover what is known as ALE, or
additional living expenses. This permits homeowners to maintain their normal
standard of living by covering the increased living expenses incurred as a
result of damage caused by the fire or a mandatory evacuation. ALE coverage
typically includes extra food costs, increased housing costs, furniture rental,
relocation and storage costs, telephone installation and extra transportation
costs to and from school or work, after the deductible is reached.
A free home
inventory guide is available on the Department of Insurance website at www.insurance.ca.gov, or by calling the
CDI Consumer Hotline at 800-927-HELP.
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Please visit the Department of Insurance Web site at www.insurance.ca.gov.
Non media inquiries should be directed to the Consumer Hotline at 800.927.HELP.
Callers from out of state, please dial 213.897.8921. Telecommunications Devices
for the Deaf (TDD), please dial 800.482.4833.
If you are a member of the public wishing information, please visit our Consumer
Services.
