Wildfire Resources & FAQ
Disaster Response
At RWM Home Loans, we understand the devastating impact wildfires and other unexpected disasters can have on homeowners and their communities. As a trusted mortgage lender, we are committed to providing support and resources to help those affected navigate this challenging time.
Am I still responsible for mortgage payments if my house burned down?
Losing a home to a wildfire is devastating, and we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. Even in such difficult times, homeowners are still responsible for their mortgage payments. If you’ve been affected, we strongly encourage you to reach out to your loan officer as soon as possible to discuss available options and next steps.
Your loan officer will help connect you with the company servicing your loan. Before you connect with the servicer, we recommend having your insurance information on hand, including your policy number and your insurance carrier’s contact details.
What are the eligibility requirements for disaster forbearance?
To qualify for payment relief, also known as disaster forbearance, your hardship must be the result of an eligible disaster. Federal emergencies and FEMA-eligible disaster areas are generally eligible.
What is defined as an eligible disaster?
An eligible disaster is defined as a disaster which results in an area being designated as an eligible disaster area and meets the following qualifications:
- A financial hardship (e.g., a loss/reduction of income or increase in expenses) that impacts the borrower’s ability to pay their current contractual monthly payment
- One of the following:
- The property securing the mortgage loan experienced an insured loss.
- The property securing the mortgage loan is located in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-Declared Disaster Area eligible for individual assistance.
- The borrower’s place of employment is located in a FEMA-Declared Disaster Area eligible for individual assistance.
How does homeowners insurance cover wildfire damage?
Homeowners insurance often covers wildfire damage, but every policy is different. If you’ve been affected, take the time to review your coverage, the claim process, and any available benefits. This can be a stressful time, and understanding your policy can help you carefully and properly take the next steps required.
How are insurance payouts handled?
After a wildfire, insurance companies may provide different types of payments including assistance for additional living expenses (ALE) to help cover evacuation, relocation, and temporary housing costs.
How do I apply for FEMA assistance?
After making a claim with your insurance provider, the first step homeowners can take to jumpstart their recovery is to apply for FEMA assistance. There are three ways to apply:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you have access to the internet and your electronic devices have power, applying online is the easiest, fastest and most convenient way to apply.
- On the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 4 AM to 10 PM Pacific Standard Time. Help is available in most languages.
What relief options do I have for my mortgage?
If relief is needed, discuss the following options with your loan servicer:
- Forbearance
- Reinstatement
- Repayment plan
- Disaster payment deferral
- Short sale
- Deed-in-lieu of foreclosure
- Flex Modification®
Is it safe to return to my property after a wildfire?
It’s crucial to wait for official clearance by local authorities before returning. Debris and ash from burned homes can contain harmful substances, such as arsenic, lead, mercury, and asbestos, which pose serious health risks. While it’s tempting to go back and look for treasured belongings, ensure your safety by following the guidance issued by local authorities and the fire department.
How can I protect my property from further damage?
If your home has sustained damage be prepared to board up windows and doors and cover your roof with a tarp to prevent potential additional issues. Remember to keep receipts for any materials you use for repairs as this documentation will be helpful for insurance claims and future restoration efforts.
What documents should I gather for the recovery process?
Gather important documents like your insurance policies and property ownership records and make sure you have a reliable long-term mailing address. These steps will help you stay organized and ensure you receive all necessary communications during the recovery process. Your loan officer may have records available of insurance and mortgage account information if you have lost your records from the wildfire or other disaster.
Where can I find assistance after losing my home to a wildfire?
Reach out to disaster relief organizations such as the Red Cross, local government agencies, and disaster resource centers for assistance with immediate needs and to help replace important documents.
What if I lost my will or trust documents in a wildfire?
It is important to remember that for a trust and will to be valid, they must be original documents signed in ink—electronic copies won’t usually satisfy a court. If you’ve lost your original trust and/or will from a fire or water damage, the best course of action is to reach out to your estate attorney ASAP to help recreate new original documents of your trust and/or will to be re-signed and notarized promptly. While an attorney cannot certify a scanned copy as a valid replacement, they can guide you through the process of creating new documents that reflect your wishes and can ensure they are properly executed. It’s important to get this sorted as soon as possible to avoid unexpected complications after a disaster.
What if I lost my prescriptions in a wildfire?
If you’ve lost your prescriptions in a wildfire, don’t worry—your doctor can help you refill them. Contact your doctor’s office as soon as possible to explain the situation. They can verify your prescription history and issue new prescriptions if needed. In some cases, the doctor may be able to directly send the prescription to a pharmacy for you. If your doctor’s office was also damaged and their records lost, your health insurance provider may have records of current prescriptions and may be able to assist on a temporary basis until your physician’s office is re-established.
What if my home is near the wildfire aftermath?
If your home is near wildfire aftermath, prioritize safety and avoid returning until officially cleared by local authorities. Air quality may be hazardous in surrounding areas, so consult a medical professional if you have health concerns and check air quality indexes. Flooding from rains following a fire can be dangerous and severe. Find a temporary location to stay until it’s safe to return. Once cleared, inspect your property carefully and contact your insurance provider for guidance on filing claims. Let family and friends know you’ve either returned to your home if safe to do so, or where your temporary lodgings are and for how long. Stay informed about your home’s area and take all necessary precautions for your health and safety.