A Creative’s Guide to Recovering from The 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires: Clear Steps to Take Right Now (Including Resources)

January 15, 2025 | All Posts

With so much information about what to do in the wake of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, things can get overwhelming.

We get that and want to make it easier.

We know that the emotional load and real damage can make a daunting task for our creative clients. So, we’re offering a streamlined, condensed version of the very best information we can find.

We listened to what top insurance and property damage attorneys said and translated that into actionable information.

These heavy hitters have represented victims in landmark cases, secured billions in settlements, and worked on everything from insurance claims to real property litigation after natural disasters. While we love supporting creatives with valuable resources, it’s important to note that we are not insurance or tax attorneys.

We made this guide to provide general information, but please consult an insurance or disaster recovery attorney for specific legal advice.

File Your Insurance Claims ASAP

Why It Matters:

Insurance is your fastest path to financial recovery. You’ve paid your premiums; now it’s time to leverage the coverage you’re entitled to.

Steps to Take:

  • File claims with all applicable policies, including homeowners, renters, auto, and business insurance. You don’t need a lawyer to start the process.
  • Update your contact information with your insurance company. If displaced, set up a P.O. box and forward your mail there for consistency.
  • Request a full copy of your policy, not just the declarations page. This includes riders and endorsements, which outline specific coverages like landscaping or building code upgrades.
  • If your home is a total loss or uninhabitable, California law requires insurers to advance four months of living expenses and 30% of your personal property limits (up to $250,000) during a declared emergency. Work with your claims representative to confirm whether your home qualifies as uninhabitable and ensure this advance is processed.

Understand Key Insurance Coverages

What to Know:

  • Coverage A: Dwelling coverage for your home’s structure.
  • Coverage B: Coverage for other structures like sheds or pools.
  • Coverage C: Personal property like furniture and clothing.
  • Coverage D: Loss of use—temporary housing, meals, and transportation expenses.
  • Building Code Upgrade Coverage: This helps pay for code compliance when rebuilding older homes.
  • Extended Replacement Coverage: Covers additional rebuilding costs, typically up to 50% over your dwelling limit.

Track Expenses and Stay Organized

Why This Is Crucial:

Your insurer will likely require detailed receipts to justify further payments, so proper documentation is key.

How to Stay Organized:

  • Use apps like Expensify to track receipts. Photograph and store them digitally.
  • Save all receipts related to temporary housing, meals, and transportation.
  • If staying with family or friends, create a formal lease agreement to document your expenses.

Create a Personal Property Inventory

How to Approach This: This can be emotionally taxing, so take it one step at a time:

  • Go room by room, listing items from memory or old photos.
  • Group items into categories like clothing, electronics, and furniture.
  • Use purchase records or email receipts from sites like Amazon to confirm values.
  • Don’t omit items, even if they exceed your policy limit, as insurers often apply depreciation.

Beware of Predatory Practices

The aftermath of a disaster can attract individuals and businesses looking to exploit vulnerable situations. It’s crucial to stay cautious and protect yourself.

Red Flags to Watch For:

  • High-Pressure Tactics: Avoid signing agreements immediately; vet contractors, public adjusters, and attorneys.
  • Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious of anyone approaching you at evacuation sites or hotels.
  • Exaggerated Promises: If someone guarantees a specific payout, proceed with caution.

Additional Tips:

  • Research professionals thoroughly and ensure they are licensed and reputable.
  • Understand that public adjusters can help maximize claims but may not be necessary for straightforward cases.
  • Always request written agreements and review them carefully before committing to anything.

If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek advice from a trusted professional.

Understand FEMA Coverage

Key Points to Keep In Mind:

FEMA offers funds for uninsured or underinsured losses. Take time to understand FEMA rules to avoid jeopardizing the assistance you can get.

Rules About FEMA Funds:

  • No Duplication of Funds: FEMA cannot assist with insured expenses or expenses covered by other sources such as GoFundMe. For example, if your insurance company pays for home repairs, FEMA will not provide additional funds for the same repairs.
  • Accountability Is Key: FEMA may later require detailed documentation showing how you spent the funds. Keep receipts and maintain a log of your expenditures.

Why This Matters:

If FEMA determines that you have received duplicate funds—for example, by using both FEMA assistance and GoFundMe donations for the same purpose—they will take issue with this. Sometimes, they may demand repayment or take legal action, as duplicating funds is a serious violation.

Tips for Managing FEMA Funds Responsibly:

  • Use FEMA funds for their intended purposes, such as repairs, temporary housing, or other approved recovery expenses.
  • Keep records separating FEMA funds from other resources, like insurance payouts or crowdfunding donations.
  • Be precise when setting up fundraising campaigns like GoFundMe.
  • Avoid stating that the funds are for expenses FEMA might cover, such as rebuilding your home, unless you are sure FEMA will not provide aid. Use caution when stating how you will use the money from GoFundMe, such as rebuilding, unless you are 100% positive that FEMA funds won’t cover it.

By carefully managing your FEMA funds and maintaining transparency, you can avoid issues while maximizing your assistance.

Tips for Renters

Renters must understand their rights and options. California law protects tenants during times of emergency.

Key Points for Renters

  1. Rental Agreements End if the Unit Is Destroyed
    • Under California law, your lease or rental agreement is automatically void if a wildfire completely destroys your rental unit.
    • You are no longer required to pay rent, and your landlord must return your security deposit.
  2. Partial Damage Offers Flexibility
    • If your unit is partially damaged but still habitable, you can either:
      • Wait for your landlord to make repairs, or
      • End the rental agreement and find alternative housing.
    • Discuss your options with your landlord and ensure you document changes in writing.
  3. Protections Against Rent Increases
    • California’s anti-price-gouging law prevents rent increases of more than 10% above pre-emergency levels during declared emergencies.
    • This law applies to new and existing tenants and is in effect until February 6, 2025, unless extended by executive order or declaration.
  4. Renter’s Insurance Can Help
    • Most renters’ insurance policies provide at least $25,000 to replace lost property, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics.
    • Check your policy to understand what is covered, and contact your insurer promptly to begin the claims process.
  5. For Uninsured Renters
    • If you don’t have renters’ insurance, you can apply for a low-interest disaster recovery loan through government programs like FEMA or the Small Business Administration (SBA). These loans can help you replace essential belongings and cover other recovery expenses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to Notify Your Landlord. If you end your rental agreement or request repairs, notify your landlord immediately. Put all communication in writing.
  • Overlooking Price-Gouging Protections. If you believe your landlord is attempting to raise rent beyond the 10% limit, report the issue to your local housing authority or California’s Department of Justice.
  • Delaying an Insurance Claim. Don’t wait to contact your renters’ insurance provider. Promptly filing your claim can expedite your recovery process.

Contract Changes and Changes of Plans

The wildfires have upended tons of collaborations and contracts.

Navigating changes during a crisis requires communication, respect, and a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.

Use the following tips to manage these situations effectively:

Tips for Dealing with Contract Changes

  1. Prioritize Open Communication
    • Reach out to the other party as soon as possible to discuss the situation. Be honest about the challenges and express a willingness to find solutions that work for everyone.
    • Focus on maintaining a peaceful and collaborative tone during discussions.
  2. Review the Contract Thoroughly
    • Look for terms that address changes, delays, or cancellations, such as force majeure clauses, which often cover events like wildfires.
    • Pay attention to deadlines, notice requirements, or specific procedures for modifying or terminating the agreement.
  3. Document All Changes in Writing
    • Any modifications, extensions, or waivers should be in writing and signed.
    • This documentation protects both sides and ensures no misunderstanding about the updated terms.
  4. Give and Expect Grace
    • Everyone is going through a hard time. Approach negotiations with empathy and flexibility.
    • Remember that understanding and goodwill can go a long way toward preserving long-term relationships.
  5. Seek Professional Guidance
    • Consult with an attorney to understand your contract and any proposed changes. A legal professional can help you interpret complex terms and avoid unintended consequences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Reviewing the Contract. Since your contract outlines everyone’s rights and responsibilities and how changes are handled, it should be your first starting point as you shift your plans.
  • Relying on Verbal Agreements. Putting things in writing is even more critical, with so much to remember in times of stress and crisis. Your future self will be happy to have something written to refer back to.
  • Being aggressive. Now is the time to collaborate and support one another. Approaching conversations as an adversary creates needless conflict during a hard time.

Give Yourself Time

Natural disaster recovery isn’t just a logistical challenge. It’s also an emotional one.

While you must take action, you can also allow yourself time to process what’s happened and prioritize your well-being.

Recognize the Emotional Toll

Natural disasters exact a terrible emotional toll, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure. Acknowledge your feelings and know that emotional and practical recovery takes time.

Practical Tips for Recovering from the Wildfires:

  • Set Manageable Goals: Break things into small, actionable steps to avoid overwhelm. Focus on one thing at a time.
  • Lean on Your Support System: For emotional and logistical support, contact family, friends, or community organizations.
  • Take Breaks When Needed: Don’t forget to take breaks for self-care.

Seek Professional Support

If you find it difficult to cope, seek help from a mental health professional specializing in trauma or grief. Many disaster recovery programs offer free or low-cost mental health services, so explore available resources in your area.

Take Your Time

Recovery is a marathon.

By giving yourself grace, relying on available resources, and taking the process step by step, you’ll be in a stronger position to rebuild practically and emotionally.

We created this guide to support creatives, but we’re not insurance or tax attorneys.

Consult a specialist if you have specific legal questions or need personalized advice.

Remember, you’re not alone—help is out there, and we hope this guide empowers you to take the next steps with clarity and confidence.

We ❤️ Los Angeles.

Do you need free 1-on-1 support from the Counsel for Creators team?

We offer free, 1-on-1 support calls to creatives affected by the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.

☎️ Click here to learn more and to schedule a call with us.

Resources for Creatives Affected By LA Wildfires

1. General Wildfire Recovery Resources

2. Artist-Specific Support

  • Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Foundation Emergency Grant Provides one-time grants of up to $15,000 to painters, printmakers, and sculptors who have been creating mature art for at least ten years and have experienced catastrophic events.
  • Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) Offers $3,000 emergency relief grants to individual craft artists facing significant losses due to disasters.
  • Artists’ Fellowship, Inc. Provides financial assistance to professional visual artists and their families during sickness, natural disaster, bereavement, or unexpected extreme hardship.
  • Rauschenberg Emergency Grants Offers need-based grants of up to $5,000 for unexpected medical, dental, and mental health emergencies to artists in visual arts, film/video/electronic/digital arts, and choreography.
  • Foundation for Contemporary Arts Emergency Grants Provides urgent funding for visual and performing artists with unanticipated opportunities to present their work or face unexpected expenses close to deadlines.

3. Financial Assistance

4. Housing and Displacement Resources

5. Mental Health and Emotional Support

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