It’s time to start thinking about wildfire preparedness again. Landlords, renters, and homeowners who live in wildfire hotspots can feel better educated about and better prepared for wildfires with this article. Explore fire prevention, evacuation plans, insurance, and what to do after a wildfire.
Summer is fast approaching, and while there are many seasonal changes to look forward to, there are also some less desirable consequences to the hotter, drier weather you can expect over the next few months. With the increased temperature and decreased rainfall of the seasonal change comes wildfires.
Wildfires are a serious concern for many landlords and other homeowners, especially those who live in wildfire hotspots such as California. Northern California wildfires caused $550 million in damage in 2024 alone. As such, it is extremely important for homeowners and housing providers to have plans and precautions in place to protect themselves and their tenants in the event of a wildfire. After a fire, it is also important to know what your next steps are, whether your property is damaged or destroyed by wildfire.
Here is some of the most significant information a homeowner or housing provider needs to know in case of a wildfire. Share this information with your tenants as well, so they know what you will do in the event of a wildfire.
Fire Prevention
Although wildfires are unpredictable and cannot always be prevented by an individual, there are some ways to keep your property safe from both wildfires and housefires, which can spiral further out of control if not contained or prevented. For wildfire prevention at your property, try to create a “defensible space” by minimizing the amount of dead vegetation near your property. It is also wise to keep living vegetation around a house in check, as live vegetation can still catch fire and worsen a wildfire. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has a helpful article on creating defensible space around your property.
Learn more: Fire Safety for Your Rental Property
What to do in Case of Evacuation
Evacuation is a common consequence of wildfires. To prevent families from being harmed by smoke or fire, many people are required to evacuate their homes. As such, there is a chance of your tenants needing to evacuate from your property. If a tenant needs to evacuate from your property, it is important that you keep in touch with them. Ensure they are safe, inform them if they are not already aware of evacuation orders, and prepare for your next steps. Encourage your tenants to develop a plan of action ahead of time to be prepared for the possibility of evacuation. If those renters have pets, recommend a pet crisis plan in case it becomes necessary.
Landlord and Renters Insurance
Landlord insurance and, by extension, renters insurance are two of the best ways to protect you and your property in the event of wildfire or any other disaster. If a tenant needs to evacuate due to a wildfire, they won’t be able to take most of their possessions with them, which can be covered by renters insurance. Landlord insurance will cover the property itself, providing payouts to help you make repairs in the event of a wildfire or another disaster.
While you and your tenants should always have insurance, it is exceptionally important to have your property and possessions insured in seasons and locations where natural disasters are common. Insurance is the best way to be prepared for the unexpected, and operating without it can put you, your renters, and your property at serious risk.
Learn more: Why Should I Require My Tenants to Have Renters Insurance?
What to do After a Wildfire as a Landlord
After a wildfire, you should first assess the damage and communicate with your tenants. If your property is damaged, you will need to discuss your lease with your tenants. In some locations, you may be required to provide your tenant with alternative accommodations if the home is rendered uninhabitable due to fire. Then, you and your tenant should contact your insurance providers and arrange to have any repairs and replacements you can have done.
Learn more: Landlord and Renter Rights After a Wildfire
Final Thoughts
While wildfires can be scary, preparedness can help you minimize the risks, damages, and concerns, and should a fire happen, a plan ensures you know what your next steps are. Share this article with your tenants to encourage a conversation about wildfire preparedness and discuss fire prevention, insurance, response, and plans of action for evacuation.