Supporting Our Community in the Aftermath of the Los Angeles Wildfires
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles County have devastated thousands of homes, leaving many of our neighbors grappling with the aftermath of such an overwhelming disaster. As a local real estate law firm with clients throughout LA County and beyond, we extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by this tragedy.
While we understand that unfortunately, many homeowners will face challenges related to fire insurance claims, we want to clarify that we do not handle insurance law. However, we are here to assist with most other real estate legal matters, including those related to property damage, habitability disputes, title and ownership issues, probate, estate planning and more. As real estate litigation attorneys we are also extremely familiar with predatory scams and con artists.
Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams
In times of crisis, there are, unfortunately, individuals and groups who exploit the situation to commit fraud. We urge everyone to remain vigilant when hiring contractors or signing agreements related to repairing or rebuilding damaged homes. Some common scams to watch out for after natural disasters include:
Unlicensed or Fake Contractors: Individuals who demand large upfront payments but never complete the work.
Overpriced or Low-Quality Repairs: Contractors offering inflated rates or using substandard materials.
Fake Charities: Organizations soliciting donations for wildfire victims but keeping the funds for personal gain.
Loan Scams: Predatory lenders offering quick cash loans with exorbitant interest rates.
Title Fraud: Scammers forging documents to transfer property ownership unlawfully.
Fake mortgage assistance – for instance someone offering to pay your mortgage for you.
How We Can Help
If you are navigating legal challenges related to real estate during this difficult time, our team is ready to provide the guidance you need. Whether it’s reviewing contracts, resolving disputes, or protecting your property rights, we’re here to help. Please do not sign anything in writing without have an Attorney review and advise you on what you are signing.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with your questions or concerns. Together, we can work towards rebuilding and protecting what matters most.
If something sounds fishy it probably is. If something sounds too good to be true it is. If you need advice before you make a decision give us a call.
WHAT ABOUT MY MORTGAGE?
Homeowners should immediately contact their mortgage companies to ask about what options may be available to them.
“We can suspend or delay payments, especially if you work at home and the disaster impacted your ability to earn a living,” said Roger Stotts, chief servicing officer at New American Funding. “Typically, we can suspend or delay the payments for three to 12 months, depending on your circumstances.”
“This doesn’t impact your credit rating because we don’t report the payments as delinquent,” he said. Original article “After the Disaster: Advice for Homeowners After a Wildfire” you can find here.
Essential Information and Documents for Wildfire-Affected Homeowners
Proof of Property Ownership
Property deeds
Mortgage documents
Recent property tax statements
Insurance Information
Homeowner’s insurance policy (including fire coverage)
Contact details for your insurance agent or company
Documentation of past claims (if applicable)
Personal Identification
Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
Social Security cards
Birth certificates for all household members
Home Inventory Records
List of personal belongings with estimated values
Photographs or videos of the property and contents
Receipts or proof of purchase for high-value items
Financial Records
Bank statements
Loan agreements
Credit card statements
Emergency Contact Information
Local emergency services numbers
Utility company contact information (electric, water, gas)
Trusted family, friends, or neighbors
Legal Documents
Wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Lease agreements (if renting)
Copies of contracts with contractors or service providers
Evacuation and Safety Plans
Local evacuation routes and plans
Emergency supply kit checklist
Contact details for shelters or disaster relief organizations
Rebuilding and Repair Resources
Contact information for licensed contractors
Local government permits and rebuilding guidelines
Records of prior home repairs or renovations
Wildfire Preparedness Resources
Local fire department or wildfire management contacts
Community resources for wildfire education and support
Gomez Law - “Protecting your most valuable asset, your real estate.”