What Is a Third-Party Wildfire Attorney?
While insurance is a critical first step after a wildfire loss, it often falls short of making you whole. Many policy limits simply don't match the staggering cost of rebuilding a home, replacing lost belongings, or covering months of displacement. That’s where third-party wildfire attorneys come in. They go beyond insurance claims to hold the responsible third parties—such as utility companies or other negligent entities—accountable.
Who Do Third-Party Wildfire Attorneys Represent?
Third-party wildfire attorneys represent:
Homeowners whose homes were damaged or destroyed
Renters or occupants who lost their belongings
Business owners whose operations were disrupted or destroyed
Individuals who stored property at a location that burned, even if they didn’t live there
Those who suffered injuries or the loss of a loved one due to the fire
What Do Third-Party Wildfire Attorneys Do?
The primary goal is to help clients recover compensation beyond what insurance covers. Third-party wildfire attorneys file claims against negligent third parties to recover damages for:
The insurance gap (the difference between actual loss and what insurance pays)
Property damage and personal property loss
Loss of use and additional living expenses
Business interruption and income loss
Personal injury or wrongful death damages
How Are Third-Party Attorneys Different from First-Party Insurance Attorneys?
First-party insurance attorneys help clients resolve disputes with their insurance companies — for example, if an insurer wrongfully denies or undervalues a claim. These attorneys are paid to advocate within the insurance policy.
Third-party wildfire attorneys, on the other hand, bring lawsuits against the parties responsible for the fire — such as utility companies, maintenance contractors, or other entities whose negligence caused the damage.
In short, first-party attorneys help you fight your insurer. Third-party wildfire attorneys help you hold the wrongdoers accountable.