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California Claims Guide
California Hurricane Damage Help
Big storms can still bring flooding and wind. Here is a simple plan.
- Built from official storm + insurance resources
- Plain words, clear steps, no fluff
- Updated often as rules and programs change
"Every California homeowner deserves fair treatment from their insurance company."
What to Do First
Follow these 6 essential steps immediately after the storm.
1
Make it safe. Stay away from down lines.
2
Stop more damage. Use a tarp if you can do it safely.
3
Take photos and video right away.
4
Write down dates and times.
5
Call your insurance company and ask for a claim number.
6
Watch flood alerts
What to watch in California
Fast rain can flood low spots. Wind can damage roofs and fences. Take photos early.
What to Photograph
Take these photos as soon as it’s safe. They help prove what happened.
Roof (all sides)
Gutters, downspouts, vents
Window screens, AC fins, exterior paint
Inside water stains (ceiling, walls)
Any broken items outside
Free Downloads to Keep You on Track
Printable checklists and guides to help you stay organized.
Storm Damage Photo Checklist
A quick checklist to help you document storm damage correctly and protect your insurance claim.
Storm Damage Insurance Claim Timeline
An easy-to-follow timeline showing key steps and deadlines in the storm insurance claim process.
Why Storm Damage Claims Get Stuck
Learn the common reasons storm damage claims are delayed or denied—and how to avoid them.
Do I Need an Attorney for My Storm Damage Claim
A simple guide to help you decide if legal help is necessary for your storm damage claim.
California Hurricane damage articles
In-depth guides and resources for California homeowners.
Helpful Resources
California & National resources to help with your storm damage claim
California Department of Insurance (consumer hotline)
- Phone: (800) 927-4357
- Address: 300 Capitol Mall, Suite 1700, Sacramento, CA 95814
California Governor's Office of Emergency Services
- Phone: (916) 845-8510
- Address: 3650 Schriever Ave, Mather, CA 95655
Contractors State License Board (verify license + file complaint)
- Phones: (800) 321-2752
- Address: 9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95827
California Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General
- Phones: (916) 445-9555
- Address: 1300 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
National Resources
FEMA Disaster Helpline
- Phones: 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585)
- Address: 500 C Street SW, Washington, DC 20472
Disaster assistance (apply + check status)
- Use: DisasterAssistance.gov (official FEMA portal)
U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance (loans + support)
- Phones: 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339)
American Red Cross (shelter + supplies + reunification)
- 1-800-733-2767
- 431 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20006
211 (local help fast)
- Phone: Dial 2-1-1 (housing, food, shelters, local programs)