Business Checklist for LA Wildfires Recovery

Recovering from the devastating effects of wildfires is a challenging journey, but proactive steps can help your business regain stability and recover faster. This checklist provides actionable guidance to address critical areas like insurance claims, crisis planning and tax relief. Use it as a roadmap to navigate immediate priorities and long-term rebuilding efforts.

• Insurance
• Crisis Planning & Continuity
• Tax Relief

Insurance

• File your insurance claim. Business interruption insurance covers most loss of profits — even if your building doesn’t burn down. Contingent business interruption insurance should also be considered. Visit California Department of Insurance Wildfire Resources for guidance.
• Review ways to streamline your claim process.
• Document conversations. Maintain a “claim diary” to log all insurer interactions. Ask for policy references when exclusions or limits are cited.
• Document business losses. Compile detailed records of damages to property, equipment and inventory to support your insurance claims. Include photos, receipts and valuation reports.
• Seek assistance. Call the California Department of Insurance at 1-800-927-4357 or file a complaint online for guidance.

Crisis Planning & Continuity

• Update business records. Inform suppliers, clients and partners about any disruptions. Update your business address or contact details if temporarily relocated.

Tax Relief

• Review local tax extensions. Los Angeles has extended the business tax filing deadline for businesses directly impacted by the wildfires. The new deadline is April 14, 2025, instead of February 28, 2025. Stay updated through the City of Los Angeles Emergency Recovery page.
• Plan for post-disaster operations. Access resources and action plans through the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation Natural Disaster Planning Guide.

Get Personalized Support

Recovering from the impact of wildfires is overwhelming, but taking the right steps now can make a big difference in getting your business back on track. Use this checklist as a starting point, and remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact our disaster response team via the contact form below to get expert help on your insurance, business and tax questions.