The destructive fires in Los Angeles have brought home that we are now in a new climate era, where regular weather occurrences such as the Santa Ana winds have grown increasingly dangerous and unpredictable. We have all watched the LA wildfires ravage whole neighborhoods and business districts in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena, and threaten the cultural treasures, art and antiquities at the Getty Villa and the Getty Institute. This terrifying event has highlighted the urgent need to safeguard both public and private collections. Private collectors, similar to the caretakers of the Getty collections, need to understand how to minimize risk and apply appropriate insurance strategies for their valuable colledtions.
In this blog post, I will assess wildfire risks and their impact on collections, discuss how to choose the right insurance policies specific to art and antiques, and provide practical tips for creating a disaster preparedness plan.
Assessing Wildfire Risks and Their Impact on Collections
The first step in protecting your collection is assessing wildfire risks in your area. Locations that experience prolonged drought, such as parts of California, are especially vulnerable. For example, Southern California saw a 25% increase in wildfire incidents in the last decade, underscoring the need for vigilance.
Understanding local fire history is crucial. Familiarize yourself with past wildfire events and their proximity to your home. This knowledge can help you gauge how vulnerable your collection might be.
Consider the physical security of your valuables. Items in high-risk areas like attics or basements may face greater danger than those in climate-controlled spaces. For instance, using fire-resistant cabinets and boxes can notably lower the risk of damage. A fire-rated safe can enhance protection and provide peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Insurance Policies for Art and Antiques
Understanding wildfire risks leads to the next step: choosing suitable insurance policies. Not all insurance coverage protects valuable collections effectively, especially for art and antiques.
Specialized Coverage: Seek out insurance that offers specific coverage for collectibles. Standard homeowners’ policies may not cover significant losses. A provider specializing in art insurance can ensure better protection.
Documenting Your Collection: Engage a professional appraiser to provide a valuation of your items. Keep detailed records with descriptions and photos. This information is essential for filing claims. Documented collections makes the claims process much easier.
Replacement vs. Actual Cash Value: Know the difference between these two coverage types. Replacement Value ensures you receive the current market price to replace lost items, while actual cash value considers depreciation. Choosing Replacement Value protects your investment more effectively.
Comprehensive Fire Coverage: Make sure fire coverage explicitly includes wildfires. Many policies do not automatically offer this. Reviewing your coverage can help prevent surprises after a loss.
Selecting the right coverage can provide peace of mind, letting collectors know their treasures are secure against unexpected disasters.
Tips for Creating a Disaster Preparedness Plan for Valuable Assets
Preparation is key in protecting valuable collections from wildfires. Here are some actionable tips to create a safety plan:
Inventory Your Collection: Create a detailed inventory listing of all valuable items. Include photographs, dimensions, condition notes and estimated values. This record is crucial for both insurance claims and recovery.
Keep your inventory or appraisal in the cloud: Make sure you have your most recent appraisal either in the cloud, or verify that your appraiser has the report backed up in the cloud (appraisalscribe.com is cloud-based report writer for appraisers). If it’s not backed up, take a hard copy with you, along with photos of your artwork, objects, etc., to have in preparation for any claims.
Prepare an Evacuation Strategy: Outline a clear plan for what to do in a wildfire. Identify safe evacuation spots and ways to transport your collection. Consider an emergency go-bag containing crucial documents and contact information.
Invest in Fire Resistance: Utilize fire-resistant storage options to protect your items. Fire-rated safes and cabinets can significantly reduce risks. For example, using fire-preventive materials could lower risk exposure by up to 70%.
Conduct Regular Maintenance: Stay proactive by updating your inventory and reassessing storage safety regularly. Frequent risk assessments help to adapt to changing conditions and reinforce safety.
Connect with Local Fire Services: Establish a relationship with your local fire department. They can provide guidance on fire safety measures and resources tailored to protect your collections.
Creating a robust disaster preparedness plan enables collectors to reduce loss and better protect their valuable items.
Safeguarding What Matters Most
As the frequency of wildfires continues to rise, it is crucial for collectors to evaluate their risks and implement effective protection strategies. By assessing wildfire threats, selecting appropriate insurance, and preparing a comprehensive disaster plan, collectors can protect their cherished art, antiques, and artifacts.

By being proactive today, you ensure valuable collections will endure nature's challenges, allowing future generations to enjoy these treasures. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize your collection's safety.
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