As wildfires continue to impact multiple counties across
Nevada, the Division of Insurance (Division) reminds Nevadans to be proactive
in preparation of a possible emergency. There are a number of wildfires across
the State, and Governor Joe Lombardo has issued a Declaration of Emergency due
to the Bug and Fred Mountain fires. Nevadans are encouraged to check their
homeowners, renters, or condo policies to determine what is covered in the
event they are impacted by wildfire. Many policies cover physical damage from
fire, smoke damage, and additional living expenses.
“The Division is monitoring the wildfires across the State,
and we are grateful to all of the first responders out there day and night
fighting to protect us,” says Insurance Commissioner Ned Gaines. “Remember that
safety is of the utmost importance. The Division is ready to support consumers
if the need arises, and there is information available on our website to help.”
Commissioner Gaines also urges insurance companies to work proactively with
insureds affected by the fires by providing support for the claims process and
flexibility on premium payments.
Insureds impacted by a fire evacuation may be entitled to
cost reimbursement from their insurance company for loss of use and additional
living expenses. Some insurance companies place customers in temporary
housing/hotel with food allowance. Policies have specific terms and conditions,
and coverage is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may have a specific
coverage sublimit. Insureds are encouraged to save receipts or records of
transactions for evacuation-related expenses if they plan to file a claim.
Insureds should review their policy and contact their
insurance agent or insurance company before filing a claim. If they experience
issues filing a claim or need help navigating the process, consumers are
encouraged to attempt to resolve any issues with their insurance agent and/or
insurance company by working with them directly or contacting the Division to
file a formal complaint.
Understanding Home Insurance:
For more information about Home Insurance, read the Nevada
Consumer's Guide to Home Insurance at https://doi.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/doinvgov/_public-documents/News-Notes/CG%20to%20Home%20Insurance%202026.pdf
To better understand your insurance policy, read How to Read
Your Policy at https://doi.nv.gov/Consumers/Homeowners-Insurance/Read-Your-Policy/.Prepare a Home Inventory. The Division of Insurance
recommends that you create a home inventory to help you decide on the type and
amount of home insurance you need and to expedite the claims process in the
event of a loss. Learn more about preparing a home inventory at https://doi.nv.gov/Consumers/Homeowners-Insurance/Home-Inventory/.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
offers free resources to help homeowners and renters create their inventory.
You can download the free NAIC Home Inventory app for iPhone at the App Store
and Android on Google Play.
Contact Us:
Carson City office:
Phone: (775) 687-0700 | Fax: (775) 687-0787
Consumer Compliance & Licensing Fax: (775) 687-0797
1818 E. College Pkwy., Suite 103
Carson City, NV 89706
Las Vegas office:
Phone: (702) 486-4009 | Fax: (702) 486-4007
3300 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 275
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Call Toll-free: (888) 872-3234
Email: insinfo@doi.nv.gov
About
the Nevada Division of Insurance:
The
Nevada Division of Insurance regulates Nevada’s $30 billion insurance industry
and protects the rights of Nevada consumers. The Division provides oversight of
insurance companies, producers, and related entities; enforces insurance laws
and regulations; and offers consumer assistance, education, and outreach
programs to help Nevadans make informed insurance decisions.
The
mission of the Nevada Division of Insurance is to protect Nevadans by ensuring
a fair, stable insurance market and empowering consumers through education and
support. For more information about the Division of Insurance, visit DOI.NV.GOV or
follow the Division on
X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
or YouTube.
