Practice Area

Wildfire Claims

After a wildfire, the loss is overwhelming and the insurance process is its own ordeal. We stand between you and the insurer so your claim reflects what you actually lost.

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How Krankemann Law helps after a fire

We review your policy, document the full extent of your loss, and hold the insurer to the coverage you paid for. When a claim is delayed, underpaid, or denied, we press it directly and pursue every avenue the policy and the law allow. Where a third party caused the fire, we evaluate claims against that party as well.

The losses we address

Wildfire claims often include the structure, personal property, additional living expenses, business interruption, and the gap between an insurer's estimate and the real cost to rebuild. Northern California homeowners frequently find the payout falls short of replacement value. We work to close that gap.

Why this matters in Sonoma County

Sonoma County has lived through repeated, destructive wildfire seasons, and many residents are still navigating coverage years later. Local rebuilding costs and policy limits often collide. We bring that regional context to every claim.

What we handle

  • Underpaid or lowball insurance settlements
  • Denied or delayed wildfire claims
  • Disputes over replacement cost versus actual cash value
  • Additional living expense and business interruption claims
  • Smoke and ash damage claims
  • Claims against a party responsible for the fire

FAQ

Wildfire Claims — Common Questions

My insurer paid less than it costs to rebuild. What can I do?
Disputes over the gap between a payout and the true cost to rebuild are common in California wildfire claims, especially around replacement cost coverage. The first step is comparing your policy's coverage to the insurer's estimate. We can challenge an underpayment and pursue the full benefit you are owed.
How long do I have to file or dispute a wildfire claim?
Insurance policies and California law set deadlines for filing claims and for legal action, and California has extended certain wildfire-related timeframes by statute. Because these rules are detailed and time-sensitive, do not assume a deadline has passed without checking. We can confirm where your claim stands.
Can I have a claim against whoever caused the fire?
Possibly. If a utility, company, or individual caused or contributed to the fire, you may have a claim against that party in addition to your insurance claim. These claims depend heavily on the cause and the facts. We evaluate both paths together.
Do I have to accept the insurer's adjuster's number?
No. The adjuster's estimate is the insurer's position, not the final word, and you have the right to dispute it. Documentation and a careful policy reading are what move the number. We build that case on your behalf.

Free, Confidential Consultation

Talk to a Krankemann attorney about Wildfire Claims.

A free, confidential consultation costs nothing and tells you exactly where you stand.

Call (707) 524-2200 Request a Consultation