NOTE: The sample letter below must be customized to the facts of your individual situation and claim.  All portions that are in parentheses and/or underlined must be completed or revised and anything in italics should be removed before you send it. (PRINT THIS SAMPLE LETTER AS A PDF)

(Date)

(Name of adjuster or highest ranking ins. co. employee)
(Name of insurance co.)
(Address)

Re: Claim Number: ____________
Date of Loss: ____________
Name of Insured:_______________________
Address of Insured Property:_________________________________

Dear _____________,

I’m writing about my homeowner’s insurance claim for my home and possessions that were completely destroyed in a wildfire on [date of loss]. As you know from the documentation I’ve provided and your company has secured, my home and everything in it is a total loss.

Since my home and possessions are all gone, and there’s no question about the cause of the destruction, I’m asking your company to issue payment for the full amount of the insurance coverage we purchased:

Dwelling Coverage: The full $[amount], plus any extended replacement cost and building code upgrade coverage that my policy includes.

Other Structures: The full $[amount] for my destroyed garage, shed, and other structures on the property.

Personal Property: The full $[amount] for all my belongings lost in the fire.

Debris Removal: The maximum amount my policy allows for clearing the property.

Landscaping: The maximum available benefits for replacing destroyed trees and plants.

Loss of Use/Additional Living Expenses (Coverage D): Please confirm the full $[amount] of benefits available in my policy for the expenses I’m incurring due to having lost the use of my home.

This is an incredibly difficult time for me [and my family], and receiving these funds without delay will help me[us] start rebuilding and move forward despite the trauma. I will appreciate hearing back from you within 15 business days, as required by California regulations. If you need anything else from me, please let me know.

Thanks for your help during this challenging time.

Sincerely,

(Your Signature)

(Your Printed Name)

cc: (Your Insurance Agent’s Name)

      California Department of Insurance (if applicable)

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