The images are heartbreaking — entire neighborhoods reduced to ash, streets unrecognizable, and families standing before the remnants of homes that once held decades of memories. As wildfires continue to tear through Southern California, insurance concerns have quickly become one of the most pressing issues for displaced homeowners.
During a recent Insurance Hour appearance, insurance expert Karl Susman — himself among those evacuated — shared critical insights on how victims can take control of their recovery, even amid the chaos. His advice, grounded in decades of industry experience, helps demystify the insurance claims process and offers a roadmap for homeowners facing the overwhelming aftermath of wildfire loss.
"The very first thing I tell everyone," said Susman, "is to stop, take a deep breath, and exhale."
It's simple but profound advice. When your home is gone or your future uncertain, the natural reaction is panic. But Susman reminded listeners that the purpose of insurance — the reason we pay those premiums month after month — is precisely for moments like this.
"What's most important right now is that you and your loved ones are safe. The stuff you left behind — that's what insurance is for."
Once immediate safety is secured, homeowners should begin the claims process immediately, even if they don't yet know the full extent of their loss. Evacuated families unsure whether their homes survived the fire should still get in line early.
Susman likened it to "taking a number at a bakery."
"You want to be in the queue. The sooner you file, the sooner your claim will be assigned and moving."
After catastrophic events, insurers receive thousands of claims within days. Filing early ensures you're prioritized for adjuster contact and temporary housing benefits.
Once the claim is filed, the process can vary widely depending on the carrier. Some insurers require detailed inventories of lost property, while others issue payment up to policy limits when the loss is total.
For example:
Partial losses may require documentation — room-by-room itemization of damaged contents.
Total losses often qualify for immediate full-limit payments once confirmed.
However, Susman warned that policyholders working with the
