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The recent fires in Los Angeles have left devastation in their wake, and my heart aches for those who have suffered so much. As my hometown, LA holds a special place in my heart, and my social media feed is filled with stories of friends and family of friends who have lost everything. These fires bring back memories of similar tragedies, like those in Lahaina and Paradise, and prompt critical questions about how we respond to disasters and support affected communities.

In this post, I’ll share personal reflections, insights from past experiences, and some guidance for those navigating the challenging process of recovery and rebuilding.

The Human Toll of Wildfires

Wildfires are not just natural disasters; they are deeply personal and profoundly impactful events. While I question the agendas and circumstances that may have contributed to these fires, the immediate focus must be on the lives upended by this tragedy. In the coming months, it will be crucial to see how government agencies and corporations step up to address recovery and rebuilding efforts—and whether these actions truly serve the affected communities.

Lessons from the Past: A Personal Story

In early 2009, my favorite uncle’s home burned down in the small Eastern Sierra town of Quincy, CA. When my mom and I drove up immediately after hearing the news, we were met with scenes of loss and heartbreak—and something else: an influx of companies circling like vultures. These restoration contractors and third-party adjusters preyed on my uncle and aunt, offering to manage their insurance claim for exorbitant fees as high as 30%.

Fortunately, I had some prior knowledge about the insurance claims process. With my commercial projects for 2009 canceled, I stepped in as my uncle’s contractor and claims manager. Over the next year, I successfully secured nearly three times the initial compensation offered by the insurance company. By ensuring that all work was awarded to local contractors, we kept the money in the community and supported the local economy during a tough time. This rebuild became the only new construction permit pulled in Plumas County that year—a reminder of how recovery efforts can bolster communities when handled with care and intention.

Beware of Opportunists in the Recovery Process

The biggest takeaway from that experience? You don’t need to hire a restoration company or third-party adjuster to manage your insurance claim. With some guidance and determination, it’s possible to navigate the process effectively and achieve better outcomes without falling victim to unnecessary fees or exploitation.

While much has likely changed in the insurance claims process since 2009, one thing remains constant: opportunistic companies often prey on victims in the wake of disasters. I suspect the response to these fires will bring a similar wave of these entities, and it’s critical to be vigilant.

Offering Guidance and Support

Although I’m loving my life here in Idaho and don’t plan to return to LA to participate in the rebuild efforts (a question I’ve been asked frequently), I still want to offer my support to those affected. If you or someone you know has suffered a loss, please feel free to share my information. I’m more than happy to chat and offer expert advice—from navigating insurance claims to reviewing construction proposals and contracts.

Together, we can ensure that recovery efforts are handled with care, integrity, and the best possible outcomes for those impacted.

Let’s Connect

Have you or someone you know been affected by the recent fires? I’d love to hear your story or offer advice. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or reach out to me directly. Let’s support each other in navigating these challenging times.

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