Navigating Insurance Claims Post-Wildfire: What Landlords Need to Know

In this episode of The Accidental Landlord Podcast, host Peter McKenzie is joined by insurance expert Carl Bulloch to unpack one of the most stressful (and frustrating) parts of being a landlord in California - dealing with wildfire insurance claims. With the devastating January 2025 wildfires still fresh in everyone's mind, thousands of landlords are stuck in limbo, waiting on delayed payouts, battling claim denials, and facing rising premiums or non-renewals. Sound familiar? Carl brings firsthand expertise to help you make sense of it all - from what to look for in your policy, to dealing with stubborn insurance companies, to understanding why insurers are pulling out of California and what the FAIR Plan really offers. Whether you're mid-claim, underinsured, or just trying to stay ahead of the next disaster, this episode is packed with practical strategies to protect your investments and sanity. 💡 Key Takeaways: - Many landlords are still waiting on wildfire claim payouts months later - Underinsurance is rampant - know what your policy actually covers - Insurers are increasingly backing out of high-risk areas like California - There are ways to fight unfair denials and lowball offers - The California FAIR Plan might be your only option — but it comes with trade-offs - Staying proactive with upgrades, records, and legislation can make a real difference 📞 Need help managing your rental property post-wildfire? Reach out to Rincon Property Management for expert support, risk mitigation strategies, and boots-on-the-ground assistance. 🔔 Subscribe to The Accidental Landlord Podcast for more straight-talking advice for property investors navigating the wild world of real estate.