Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin are known for their beautiful forests. Unfortunately, the recent wildfires that have popped up in northern Minnesota have scorched thousands of acres and destroyed homes, cabins, and vehicles. For those affected, the aftermath brings stress, confusion—and many questions about insurance coverage – like; “Does insurance cover wildfires?”
Reliable Insurance Agency has offices in Cloquet, Hermantown and Superior, WI. And these fires hit home for us, too! Some of our staff were themselves preparing for the worst – and we know individuals who lost everything and are left to start all over. Wildfires raise urgent questions—so we answer them. This guide explains what your home and auto insurance typically covers. It also shows how Loss of Use coverage helps during evacuation, and outlines steps you can take now to stay protected before disaster strikes.
🔥 Wildfire Damage and Homeowners Insurance
What’s Covered?
A standard homeowners policy (HO3 or HO5) in Minnesota and Wisconsin typically includes coverage for fire as a named peril—or within “open perils” language on more robust policies. Most insured homeowners can expect:
- 🏠 Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A)
It covers the cost to repair or rebuild your home, including attached garages, porches, and decks. - 🏚️ Other Structures (Coverage B)
Protects detached structures on your property, such as garages, sheds, and fences. - 📦 Personal Property (Coverage C)
Reimburses for your belongings—furniture, appliances, clothing, and electronics—that are damaged or destroyed by smoke, flames, or suppression efforts. Tip: Most policies reimburse at actual cash value unless you’ve selected replacement cost coverage. Replacement cost pays to replace items at today’s prices without depreciation. - 🌲 Landscaping & Debris Removal
Most policies include limited coverage for trees, shrubs, and garden structures, with debris removal benefits following a covered fire loss. - 🧱 Ordinance or Law Coverage
Helps cover increased costs to rebuild your home to current code if regulations have changed since your home was built.
Source: Auto-Owners Insurance
🚗 Wildfire Damage and Your Car
What You Need to Know
Fire damage to your vehicle is not covered by homeowners insurance. You’ll need comprehensive auto coverage. This is an optional, but critical, part of your car insurance policy.
🔒 Comprehensive Auto Insurance Covers:
- Fire or smoke damage
- Falling embers or trees
- Vandalism or theft during evacuation
Without comprehensive coverage, you’ll be responsible for all costs associated with vehicle damage.
Source: Progressive Insurance
🏨 Loss of Use / Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
When Does it Apply?
When wildfires force you out of your home – either through destruction or evacuation orders – your homeowners policy’s Loss of Use coverage becomes essential. ALE covers the extra costs of maintaining your standard of living while displaced. That includes:
- Temporary housing (hotel, short-term rental, or extended stay)
- Meals beyond your normal grocery expenses
- Increased transportation costs
- Pet boarding, laundry, and other out-of-pocket services.
ALE may apply if civil authorities issue a mandatory evacuation due to nearby wildfire danger.
Additionally, Loss of Use benefits often max out at 20% – 30% of your Dwelling Coverage limit. They are also commonly capped at a fixed duration (e.g., 12 months). Always check your specific policy for details.
Source: Safeco Insurance – Natural Disaster Claims
🔍 Pro Tips for Claim Success After a Wildfire
- Document Everything
Take photos/videos of damage and create a digital home inventory. - Save Your Receipts
Lodging, meals, and even extra fuel receipts can be vital for ALE claims. - Contact Your Carrier Promptly
Don’t delay. Early notice helps speed up claim approvals. - Review Your Policy Annually
Coverage needs can change—especially with inflation and property improvements.
🧭 Why Work With an Independent Insurance Agency?
At Reliable Agency, Inc., we represent multiple top-rated insurance carriers like Auto-Owners, Progressive, and West Bend—not just one. That means we work for you, not the insurance company.
Here’s how we help:
- Local Knowledge: We understand the unique wildfire risks in Carlton, St. Louis, and Douglas Counties.
- Claims Support: We’ll walk you through the claims process, from paperwork to payout.
- Policy Reviews: We help you proactively ensure your coverage is adequate before disaster strikes.
🤝 Rebuilding Together
Reach out if you’ve been affected by the recent wildfires in Northern Minnesota or Northwest Wisconsin. Our team is ready to review your coverage, offer guidance, and make sure you’re protected when it matters most.
📍 Visit us in Cloquet, Hermantown, or Superior
📞 Call your local Reliable Agency office
🌐 reliablemn.com
Your peace of mind is our priority. Let’s weather the storm together!
