Los Angeles County launches investigation into Farmers Insurance wildfire claim handling
Los Angeles County is probing Farmers Insurance over alleged delays, denials and underpayments of claims from the Eaton and Palisades wildfires.
After a surge of complaints from survivors of the Eaton and Palisades wildfires, Los Angeles County opened an investigation into Farmers Insurance Company’s handling of related claims. The county’s legal team warned Farmers to stop any illegal or unfair practices, citing delays, denials and underpayments, especially for testing homes for lead, asbestos and other toxins. Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Lindsey Horvath argued that policyholders who paid premiums deserve coverage for cleanup and safe habitation.
Farmers responded that its actions comply with applicable laws and pledged to cooperate. The county’s action mirrors a recent lawsuit filed against State Farm General for comparable alleged misconduct. Residents say Farmers has refused to fund qualified industrial-hygienist testing and remediation, forcing them to shoulder costs themselves.
Why it matters
The probe highlights potential insurance failures that could leave wildfire victims without needed financial support for safe rebuilding.
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