11. Set up a new and separate email account. This helps you keep track of all insurance and recovery-related correspondence. Send everything to it.
We’d recommend creating separate folders in the new inbox for:
• Communications to/from claims adjusters • Communications to/from insurance agents • Bids from contractors
• Receipts from before: Any UPC codes you may have bought an extended warranty on, credit card statements can help you remember where you bought items and most stores can reprint receipts for you (if needed). • Receipts from after: take photos of everything you spend during the recovery period and put them in this folder. • Photos of your home: Move any photos of your home into this folder, even if the picture was not of a specific item. It is okay if it is a photo of family, with items in the background. 12. Sign up with FEMA immediately and do the same with the Red Cross and SBA for business owners. It will protect against fraud (during past fires, people discovered fraudsters were using their names). FEMA put this misconception fact sheet on Jan. 2, 2025. 13. The Red Cross You can accept monies for additional living expenses from the Red Cross and will not have to pay it back. The Red Cross is supplemental to insurance and is typically there to help you prior to any insurance reimbursement.
14. Keep good records of all post-event expenses. These expenses can include invoices and receipts for:
• Temporary housing • Extra gas • Food • Items you buy to replace damaged or destroyed items • Counseling • Medical and professional fees • Hotel bills (may be reimbursed but requires receipts) • Clothes (may be reimbursed but requires receipts) • Pet boarding (may be reimbursed but requires receipts)
Next Steps: Where to Start After a Fire Venbrook Insurance Services | CA License 0D80832
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