In January 2025, wildfires tore through parts of Southern California which was an unusual time of year for fire season, but a clear reminder that wildfire risk no longer follows a calendar.
One family in Calabasas had only minutes to evacuate as flames closed in. The fire destroyed so much of their home and personal effects, almost costing them their lives, but the real devastation came weeks later when they discovered they were severely underinsured. Their policy did not cover high-end finishes, rebuilding delays, or extended hotel stays, which were costs they were left to manage on their own.
Meanwhile, a neighbor just a few blocks away faced smoke damage but had planned ahead. His home had been fire-hardened, and his insurance included extended replacement cost and additional living expense coverage. He recovered quickly, fully covered, and stress-free.
Their stories paint a clear picture: protecting your home takes more than a hose and a hope. It requires smart fire preparation and strong insurance coverage.
Do’s & Don’ts of Fireproofing Your Property
How to Fireproof Your Home for Maximum Safety
These preventative steps can reduce the risk of your home catching or spreading fire (they may even qualify you for insurance discounts).
Do:
- Install a fire-rated roof and keep gutters free of dry debris
- Maintain and seal siding to prevent fire entry
- Upgrade to dual-pane windows for greater fire resistance and energy savings
- Keep emergency exits free from flammable debris
- Create defensible space by clearing dry vegetation and spacing trees/shrubs
Don’t:
- Store flammable items next to your home
- Allow dry or dead plants to pile up
- Use wood mulch directly around the base of your home
- Install combustible fencing or decks without understanding the risks
These actions can make a huge difference when seconds matter.
Selecting the Right Insurance Coverage
Many LA homeowners did not realize they were underinsured until it was too late. A standard policy may not be enough, especially if your home is custom-built or located in a high-risk area. Make sure your insurance includes these key protections:
- Dwelling Protection: Covers damage to your home’s structure caused by wildfire or other covered losses
- Personal Property Coverage: Covers your belongings such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and more.
- Extended Replacement Cost: Provides up to 150% of your home’s insured value to account for high rebuild costs.
- Additional Living Expenses (ALE): Covers hotel stays, meals, and temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable.
- Personal Liability Protection: Covers medical and legal costs if someone is injured or if you are found liable for damages.
- Guest Medical Protection: Covers medical expenses for guests injured on your property, no lawsuit required!
Key Takeaway
The January 2025 LA fires were a wake-up call: wildfires can strike anytime anywhere, and the time to prepare is before the smoke appears.
Talk to your agent about wildfire-specific protections and extended coverage options
Tip: Review your insurance policy to make sure it reflects today’s rebuild costs and your lifestyle
