Navigating Financial Risks During Natural Disasters: Lessons from the LA Fires

As wildfires continue to impact communities in Los Angeles, the immediate focus is, understandably, on safety and recovery. However, the financial ripple effects of natural disasters can be long-lasting and challenging to navigate. From unexpected expenses to insurance complexities, these events serve as an important reminder to review your financial readiness.

Here are a few steps to consider, whether you’ve been directly affected or want to strengthen your financial plan for the future:

  1. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Wildfires underscore the importance of adequate homeowners or renters insurance. Review your policies to ensure:

  • Coverage for Replacement Costs: Make sure your policy covers the full cost of rebuilding or replacing your home and belongings, not just the market value.
  • Add-ons for Natural Disasters: Standard policies may exclude wildfire damage in high-risk areas. Ensure you have appropriate riders or endorsements.
  • Temporary Living Expenses: Check if your policy includes coverage for relocation or temporary housing costs if you’re displaced.

Pro Tip: Document your belongings with photos or videos. This can expedite the claims process in the event of a loss.

  1. Build an Emergency Fund

The financial strain of evacuation costs, temporary housing, or lost wages can be significant. Aim to have 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses in an easily accessible account. If you’re in an area prone to disasters, you may want to extend that buffer.

An emergency fund is your first line of defense against using credit cards or loans during a crisis, which can lead to long-term financial strain.

  1. Understand Tax Implications

If you experience losses due to a wildfire, you may qualify for certain tax benefits:

  • Casualty Loss Deductions: Under federal tax laws, you may be able to deduct unreimbursed losses from natural disasters.
  • Disaster Relief Credits: Check if your region has been declared a federal disaster area, as this can open up access to special tax credits or extensions.

Consult with a tax professional to determine how to maximize your relief options.

  1. Plan for Rising Costs

Natural disasters often lead to increased costs for utilities, construction, and even insurance premiums in the affected area. Factor these potential increases into your budget.
For those rebuilding, consider inflation-adjusted costs when working with contractors or negotiating insurance settlements.

  1. Diversify Your Investment Strategy

Disasters can also affect local economies, including real estate markets and certain industries. A well-diversified investment portfolio can help minimize the impact of localized disruptions on your long-term financial goals.

If you own property in fire-prone areas, consider diversifying into other asset classes or locations to mitigate risk.

  1. Develop a Financial Disaster Plan

Just as you’d prepare an evacuation plan for your family, you need a financial disaster plan. Key components include:

  • A list of important financial documents and account logins stored securely (e.g., in a fireproof safe or cloud-based system).
  • Digital backups of essential records like insurance policies and wills.
  • A designated financial point person if you’re unable to manage your finances during a crisis.

 

The devastating fires in LA remind us that natural disasters are unpredictable but not entirely unmanageable. Taking steps to strengthen your financial preparedness now can ease the burden if disaster strikes.

At Verde Capital Management, we’re here to help you create a resilient financial plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether it’s evaluating your insurance, building an emergency fund, or strategizing your investments, we’re here to guide you through life’s uncertainties.

If you have questions or need assistance navigating financial risks, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Need help preparing for the unexpected? Schedule a consultation with one of our advisors today.