**Do I Need to Pay Mortgage, Rent, and Utility Bills After Evacuating My Home?**
During a disaster, getting to safety is the top priority. But for many Angelenos displaced by the devastating wildfires raging across Los Angeles County, questions loom about what comes next. The fires have destroyed thousands of structures and forced roughly 92,000 residents to evacuate. With some homes sitting empty and others reduced to rubble, here are answers you might need.
Homeowners: Mortgage and Property Taxes
If your home was destroyed in a wildfire, contact your mortgage servicer as soon as possible to discuss your options. You may be qualified for a forbearance plan that will temporarily lower or eliminate your monthly payment and prevent late fees and foreclosure. Fannie Mae offers resources to avoid paying a lump sum in these circumstances, including disaster payment deferral.
For property taxes, you may be eligible for temporary relief through the Los Angeles County assessor’s office. You should file a misfortune or calamity claim to request reassessment of your property. You will qualify for tax relief only if the damage exceeds $10,000 and you file your claim within 12 months of the incident.
Renters: Rent and Price-Gouging
Under California law, your rental agreement will become void if the rental unit is completely destroyed in a disaster. You will no longer be required to pay rent and your landlord must return your security deposit. If your rental unit is partially destroyed and can’t be lived in, you can choose to end your rental agreement or wait for your landlord to make the necessary repairs.
California’s anti-price-gouging law limits rent increases to no more than 10% above pre-emergency levels after a disaster. The limit applies to both existing tenants and new leases. Price-gouging protections apply anywhere in the state where displacement increases demand for housing.
Utility Bills and Temporary Housing
Whether you have to continue paying your gas, water, and power bills depends on your providers, where you live, and the condition of your home. Some companies are offering relief or suspensions for those affected by the wildfires. For temporary housing, options include Airbnb.org, hotels with discounted rates, and landlords offering discounts to fire victims.
Government Aid and Renter’s Insurance
You can receive assistance from FEMA for serious needs such as water, baby formula, and food. FEMA also offers temporary housing assistance, but California must request it for the assistance to kick in. Renters insurance can help cover costs for damaged personal property and finding a new place to live. If you don’t have renters insurance, you can apply for a low-interest loan from the federal government to replace essential items.
In times of crisis, it’s essential to know your rights and options for financial assistance. Stay informed and reach out for help when needed to navigate the aftermath of a disaster. Remember, you are not alone in facing these challenges, and support is available to help you rebuild and recover.
