In recent days, Colorado wildfires have erupted in multiple locations, prompting evacuation orders for threatened communities.
Mandatory evacuations have been issued due to the Alexander Mountain Fire in Larimer County, the Stone Mountain Fire in Boulder County and the Quarry Fire in Jefferson County.
Over the weekend, some residents in Jefferson County and Delta County were placed under pre-evacuation orders because of the Twin Forks Fire and Currant Creek Fire.
In light of these wildfires and the ongoing hot and dry conditions across the state, the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) is providing advice on insurance matters related to evacuations.
Immediate actions
• Ensure safety: Make sure you and your family are safe, and secure temporary housing if necessary.
• Contact your insurance agent or company.
Let them know where you are staying.
Ensure they have your correct contact information.
All insurance policies differ in coverages, so clarify how your specific policy protects you.
Ask for help with coverage or claims questions: What is your deductible? Does a deductible apply to additional living expenses (ALE)? Does ALE coverage have a waiting period before it kicks in? Does ALE coverage only apply if there is actual damage to the home?
Get assistance with lodging options.
Understanding your
policy
• Coverage for evacuations: Most property insurance policies cover ALE if you are under a mandatory evacuation order and cannot live in your home due to a covered peril.
• Reimbursement details: Policies typically reimburse the difference between your additional living expenses and normal living expenses.
• Policy limits and conditions: Be aware that your policy has set limits on the amount it will pay, may be subject to a deductible and could have a waiting period before ALE coverage is available.
• Out-of-pocket assistance: ALE coverage may provide some out-of-pocket money while you are displaced.
• Verify coverage: Check with your insurance agent or insurance company about your specific coverage.
• Keep receipts: Save all receipts for expenses that may be reimbursed if you file a claim.
If evacuated or displaced
• Document expenses: Keep receipts for all restaurant, hotel and other living expenses incurred because you cannot return home.
If under a pre-evacuation alert
• Evacuation plan.
Identify lodging options with family, friends, local hotels or shelters.
Look into insurance assistance with lodging.
Plan for pet shelters if needed.
• Document valuables.
If time permits, take photos or videos of personal possessions, especially valuable items.
Create a comprehensive home inventory with lists, photos or videos of your home’s contents.
Use insurance company smartphone apps to simplify this process.
• Safety first.
Always prioritize your safety over taking inventory.
Returning home after the fire
• Start the claim process.
Once it is safe to return, don’t delay. If your property has been damaged by fire or smoke, contact your insurance company or insurance agent immediately to start the claim process.
If you need contact information for your insurance company or insurance agent, reach out to the Colorado DOI Consumer Services Team for assistance: (303) 894-7490 or DORA_Insurance@state.co.us.
• Document and mitigate damage.
If your home has extensive damage, begin by taking photos and documenting what was lost.
Protect your home from further damage by placing tarps on roofs or boarding up windows.
Avoid starting any repairs until you have contacted your insurance company for guidance.
Know your policy
For Coloradans not currently threatened by a wildfire, now is the time 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.
You can also contact the DOI with any questions about insurance, your policy, how things work, how to file a claim, or just how to contact your insurance company or insurance agent.
Contact the DOI Consumer Services team at (303) 894-7490, DORA_Insurance@state.co.us or doi.colorado.gov (click on “File a Complaint”).
