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How Wildfires Like the Ocean County Blaze Could Threaten More Than Just Property – What NJ Residents Should Know About Insurance Coverage
This week, a fast-moving wildfire scorched over 8,500 acres in Ocean County, New Jersey, causing sudden evacuations, power outages, and road closures. The scale and speed of the “Jones Wildfire” left little time to prepare, reminding New Jersey homeowners that the impacts of natural disasters extend far beyond physical destruction, especially when it comes to insurance.
A Wake-Up Call for Homeowners
The wildfire, which ignited in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area, has already threatened over 1,300 structures, caused the evacuation of thousands, and left more than 25,000 households without power. While emergency crews work tirelessly to contain the blaze, many residents, especially those with damaged homes, lost property, or prolonged power outages, are now left wondering what happens next.
Unfortunately, many New Jersey policyholders may not realize until it’s too late that their insurance coverage doesn’t fully protect them from wildfire-related costs.
What Wildfire Coverage Typically Includes — and Excludes
Standard homeowners’ policies usually cover fire damage, but not all wildfire-related losses are as straightforward as a burned-down structure. You may face unexpected expenses like:
- Temporary housing during evacuation
- Spoiled food from extended power outages
- Damage from smoke or ash, even if flames never reached your home
- Cleanup and debris removal from burned vegetation or nearby structures
Many policyholders find that coverage for these secondary impacts is limited or excluded, especially if they haven’t reviewed their policy in years.
Renters and Business Owners Are Also at Risk
It’s not just homeowners who need to be prepared. Business interruption insurance can be a lifeline for companies forced to close due to evacuation or fire damage. Similarly, renters’ insurance may or may not provide adequate protection for displaced tenants or damaged personal property.
Why Reviewing Your Policy Now Matters
The Ocean County wildfire is a harsh reminder that disasters can escalate quickly. Insurance claims following wildfires are often complex, especially when power outages and evacuation costs are involved. If you wait until after a disaster to understand your coverage, you risk delayed or denied claims.
At Herold Law, P.A., we assist clients with insurance reviews, coverage disputes, and claims denials. We can help you:
- Evaluate your current policy for wildfire-related gaps.
- Dispute a denied or underpaid claim.
- Navigate the claims process and ensure fair treatment by your insurer.
Contact the New Jersey Insurance Lawyers at Herold Law, P.A.
Need help understanding your insurance coverage? Contact Herold Law, P.A. today to schedule a consultation. Call the New Jersey insurance lawyers at 908-679-5011 or contact us online. Located in Warren, New Jersey, we serve clients in Somerville, Morristown, and across the state.
