Answers You Can Trust, When You Need Them Most
Frequently Asked Questions
We know how overwhelming it can be to deal with fire damage, insurance claims, and legal uncertainty. That’s why we’ve gathered our most frequently asked questions (FAQs) and organized them by practice area—so you can quickly find answers relevant to your situation.
We’ve also included general questions about West Law Firm of California, so you can get to know how we work and what makes our team different.
Insurance Claims FAQs
If your claim has been delayed, underpaid, or denied—or if you feel overwhelmed by the process—an insurance attorney can protect your rights, guide you through the claim, and help you get the compensation you’re truly owed.
We review your policy, gather supporting evidence, communicate with your insurer, and handle negotiations or legal action if needed. Our goal is to relieve your stress and maximize your recovery.
Not without reviewing it first. Many initial offers are far below what your damages are actually worth. We can assess the offer and advise whether it’s fair or if you should fight for more.
Absolutely. Denials are not the end of the road. We can review your case, gather missing documentation, and fight to overturn the denial or reopen your claim.
Each policy and state has its own deadlines, but time is critical. Contacting an attorney early ensures you don’t miss important filing windows or make costly mistakes.
Wildfire Lawyer
Ensure your safety first. Once it’s safe, document all damages with photos and videos, and contact your insurance company promptly to report the loss.
A wildfire lawyer can help you understand your policy, ensure all damages are accounted for, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and represent you in case of disputes to secure fair compensation.
A wildfire lawyer can help you understand your policy, ensure all damages are accounted for, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and represent you in case of disputes to secure fair compensation.
If your claim is denied, a wildfire lawyer can review the denial reasons, gather necessary evidence, and appeal the decision to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Many policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which reimburses costs like temporary housing and meals if your home is uninhabitable due to a covered loss.
Time limits vary by policy and state laws. It’s crucial to file your claim as soon as possible and consult your policy or attorney for specific deadlines.
If you find you’re underinsured, a wildfire lawyer can explore options such as negotiating with your insurer, identifying potential third-party claims, or seeking additional sources of compensation.
While it’s possible, having a wildfire lawyer can be beneficial, especially if the claim is complex or disputed, to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Property Damage
If your claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid—or you’re unsure what your policy actually covers—a property damage lawyer can protect your rights and help you recover what you’re owed.
Claims may involve fire, water, storm, vandalism, mold, structural failure, or other unexpected events that result in damage to your property.
A denial doesn’t mean it’s over. A property damage attorney can review the policy, gather evidence, and challenge the insurer’s decision on your behalf.
It depends on your policy and state laws. Most policies require prompt notice, so acting quickly—and consulting a lawyer early—can help protect your rights.
In some cases, yes—especially if new damage is discovered or if the insurer acted in bad faith. An attorney can evaluate whether reopening is possible.
You may have options. A lawyer can identify potential third-party liability (like a contractor or utility company) or appeal for a more accurate valuation.
Utility Company Claims
Yes. If PG&E’s negligence caused a wildfire that damaged your property or displaced you, you may be entitled to compensation through a utility company claim.
You may recover property damage, evacuation expenses, emotional distress, lost income, and in some cases, injury or wrongful death damages.
Our legal team will investigate the cause of the incident, including utility records, fire origin reports, and witness statements to determine liability.
Do not accept or sign anything without legal advice. PG&E’s initial offer may be much lower than what you’re entitled to receive.
Yes. There are strict time limits to file a PG&E claim or wildfire lawsuit. The sooner you act, the better your chances of recovery.
Absolutely. Utility company negligence affects more than homeowners. Business owners, tenants, and landowners may all have valid claims for losses.
Government Entity Claims
Yes. If a city, county, or state agency contributed to the fire through negligence, you may file a government entity claim under the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA).
Most claims must be filed within six months of the incident. Missing this window can permanently bar your right to sue.
Our legal team will investigate fire reports, infrastructure records, and agency responsibilities to identify the liable government entity.
Yes. A government entity claim can help recover damages not fully covered by your insurance, such as emotional distress or lost income.
That’s common. We’re prepared to challenge denials, provide expert evidence, and take your case to court if necessary.
Government claims involve unique legal procedures, short deadlines, and special protections for agencies. You need an attorney who knows the system inside and out.
Smoke and Fire Claims
It depends on your policy, but many standard plans do cover smoke damage—though insurers often try to limit what they’ll pay.
You can still file a smoke damage claim. Smoke and ash can make a property uninhabitable even without visible fire damage.
Yes. If your home is unsafe due to smoke, your policy may include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for temporary housing.
You can fight it. A fire loss attorney can help you challenge the denial and gather evidence to support your case.
It’s not recommended. Cleaning too soon—or incorrectly—can harm your health and weaken your claim. Get a professional assessment first.
Time limits vary by policy, but it’s best to act quickly. Delays can result in reduced compensation or a denied claim.
general questions about West Law Firm of California
We focus on fire, smoke, and property damage claims—especially those involving wildfires, utility companies, and government negligence.
Yes—especially if your claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid. We help ensure your rights are respected and your losses fully covered.
If your property or health was affected by fire or smoke, we can evaluate your situation and determine your legal options.
Document everything, save receipts, avoid cleaning too soon, and contact an attorney before speaking with your insurance company.
We work on a contingency fee—you don’t pay unless we win or settle your case.
Absolutely. We represent homeowners, tenants, landlords, and business owners affected by fire or smoke damage.
We focus exclusively on fire-related claims and offer personalized, responsive support from the first call to final resolution.
We specialize in holding utilities and public entities accountable for negligence. You may have a strong case for compensation.
